Study Shows Carbohydrate Preference Can Reduce Energy Expenditure and Promote Weight Gain

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:10:00 +0200

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have found that carbohydrate-rich foods like bread, rice, and wheat can lead to weight gain in mice even without increasing calorie intake. In the study, mice strongly preferred these carbohydrate sources over their standard diet, resulting in weight gain and increased fat mass. The weight gain was linked not to overeating but to a reduction in energy expenditure. Further analysis revealed higher blood fatty acids, lower essential amino acids, and increased liver fat accumulation alongside activation of genes related to fatty acid production and lipid transport. Removing wheat flour from the diet reversed these effects. This suggests that excessive reliance on carbohydrate staples may impact metabolism, contributing to obesity risk. The research team plans to explore whether similar metabolic effects occur in humans, considering factors such as whole grains, dietary fiber, protein, fat combinations, food processing, and timing of meals. Thes