Science

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Connecting the dots in MS

Prof. Westall’s hypothesis that pieces of bacteria found in the gut can trigger an autoimmune reaction seems to be consistent with the limited the empirical data from Prof. Borody’s research with the 3 multiple sclerosis patients who have recovered after they received fecal transplants for their chronic constipation.  Their unexpected and dramatic recovery implies that the gut bacteria are somehow involved in the disease.  In addition to the reasons that Dr. Wahls used to explain why her diet helped her to recover, dramatically changing a diet can change the kinds and amounts of bacteria that reside in the gut.  These are very important dots that have been connected that also deserve closer examination by the multiple sclerosis research community.

Gut microbiota different in lean and obese humans and mice

A study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings discussed a finding where obese humans and mice had fewer Bacteriodes and more Firmicutes bacteria in their gut. The researchers recommended further research to determine if modifying the bacteria in the gut microbiota could be a way to treat overweight people.

The researchers indicated that certain combinations of bacteria can break food down in such a way that a person absorbs more nutrients and calories. This difference in bacteria and digestive efficiency could explain why some people can be obese while not overeating.