There is “compelling epidemiological evidence” revealing a “strong association” between being obese or overweight and the risk of developing autoimmune diseases like Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
“From an immunological standpoint, the cellular and molecular mechanisms linked to this association include the overstimulation of T lymphocytes by nutrient- and energy-sensing pathways,” according to a March 30 publication in “Science” magazine by Dr. Giuseppe Matarese, professor of immunology at the University of Naples Federico II in Naples, Italy.
T lymphocytes are a major component of the adaptive immune system.
Adipose tissue, also known as body fat, is an immunologically active organ that influences the systemic immune responses of a body via the production of adipocytokines. “In turn, immune cells affect adipocyte homeostasis and metabolism through the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines,” Matarese wrote….