Recent studies on the digestive environments of individuals of varying age, weight and habitude have indicated that obesity may impact the balance or growth of good and bad gut bacteria. While no definitive research has yet been released, preliminary studies show that at least 26 different strains of separate intestinal bacteria appear in the gut of obese individuals that do not appear in individuals of a healthy weight. Unfortunately, these specific bacteria strains possess links to obesity related illnesses like high blood pressure and insulin resistance.
Probiotics may help to level out the imbalance of gut bacteria, but so far, no definitive results have been released.
Learn more about the study, its results and the implications for weight-related health here.