Carbs May Trigger Fat Gain by Altering Metabolism, Mouse Study Finds

Osaka Metropolitan University researchers showed mice strongly preferred carb-rich foods (bread, wheat, rice), stopped eating regular chow, and gained body fat without a calorie increase. The weight gain was driven by reduced energy expenditure and metabolic changes in the liver rather than overeating; removing wheat flour reversed the effects, suggesting carb quality and dietary patterns matter. The team plans human studies to explore whole vs refined grains, dietary fiber, and meal timing on metabolism and weight.