Scientists from California State University in the US found that excess fat tissue can cause changes in mitochondrial function, which can lead to weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. Research results published In the journal Nature Metabolism.
To better understand why some overweight people have difficulty losing weight, scientists conducted an experiment using laboratory mice. Some of the rodents were selected to follow a high-fat diet, while other mice served as a control group.
After the dietary intervention was completed and the animals became overweight, scientists analyzed their mitochondrial DNA. It turns out that unhealthy nutrition and the resulting obesity affect the functioning of mitochondria (organelles that provide energy to cells), causing the body to transform its metabolism and fat storage mechanisms.
Specifically, the researchers found that obesity “switches” the mitochondria in fat cells into fission mode. This encourages more fat accumulation and makes it harder to lose weight. Most likely, the same mechanisms underlie the failure of some people to lose weight successfully.
Previously recognizedIt turns out that obese people spend more energy at night.