Modulation nutritionnelle de la flore intestinale : une nouvelle approche diététique dans la prise en charge de l'obésité ?

Qualitative and quantitative modulation of gut microbiota occurs upon obesity. Therefore, the implication of gut bacteria in the regulation of energy metabolism in host organism is supported by experimental and human data. From a biochemical point of view, host-bacteria relationships are rather complex and only few targets have been identified until now. Most of them are genes (proteins) involved in storage and oxidation of macronutrients. Are food and behaviour responsible for the changes in the composition and activity of gut microbiota? What are the consequences on obesity and metabolic syndrome? Those questions are raised, taking into account the experimental data obtained in animals and the few studies available in humans.