Fat disinhibits the immune system

All content is checked by medical journalists.

MunichIn diseases such as rheumatism, multiple sclerosis or Crohn's disease, the immune system turns against the cells of your own body. Obviously, very overweight people develop such autoimmune diseases far more often.

“We know a whole list of risk factors that promote autoimmune diseases - including infections, smoking, pesticides and vitamin deficiencies. But in recent years another factor has emerged that we cannot ignore: obesity, ”explains study director Prof. Yehuda Shoefield from Tel Aviv University. More than ten autoimmune diseases are known that are related to obesity.

Together with colleagues, the scientist has now evaluated more than 300 studies that examined the connection between obesity and autoimmune diseases.

Fat hormones promote inflammation

Above all, the so-called adipokines play a decisive role. Adipokines are various hormones that the body's fatty tissue produces, such as adiponectin, interleukin-6, and leptin. They influence the energy metabolism and the insulin sensitivity of the body cells. They also promote inflammatory reactions in the body - both of which explain why being overweight increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Decreased tolerance

In addition, the fat hormones apparently cause the body's self-tolerance to decrease. This creates a climate that promotes autoimmune diseases: The immune system is more willing to act against the body's own cells.

"Anyone who knows they are at increased risk for autoimmune diseases should do everything in their power to maintain a healthy weight," advises Shoefield.

In a society characterized by a lack of exercise and overeating, however, this is easier said than done. Almost 60 percent of Germans are overweight or even obese. (cf)

Source: Press release Tel Aviv University, 11/11/2014

Tags:  therapies sleep skin