Table of Contents
Overview
Definition of Obesity
Obesity is characterized by an excessive accumulation of adipose tissue that can impair health and increase the risk of various chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and _hyperlipidemia.[2.1] Recognized as a chronic disease, it significantly affects both adults and children, contributing to one of the leading preventable causes of death in the United States.[4.1] The prevalence of obesity has escalated into a significant public health epidemic over the past 50 years, with worldwide adult obesity rates more than doubling since 1990 and adolescent obesity rates quadrupling during the same period.[3.1] In 2022, it was reported that 1 in 8 people globally were living with obesity, amounting to approximately 890 million individuals.[3.1] Obesity results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, influenced by dietary habits and physical activity levels.[3.1] This complex disease has a multifactorial etiology, involving genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors.[2.1] Addressing obesity requires a comprehensive approach that considers these diverse influences on health.Health Implications
Obesity is a significant public health concern with profound implications for both physical and mental health. Numerous studies have established a positive association between obesity and various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders, which can severely impact an individual's quality of life.[8.1] The interplay between obesity and mental health is complex, as obesity often correlates with an increased risk of developing mental health challenges, while mental health issues can also contribute to unhealthy eating behaviors and lifestyle choices.[9.1] Factors such as weight bias and discrimination can exacerbate psychological distress independent of an individual's weight, further complicating the relationship between mental health and obesity.[9.1] Additionally, adverse childhood experiences have been identified as contributing factors to both obesity and mental illness, highlighting the need for integrated treatment approaches that address both conditions as chronic and interacting.[9.1] From a physical health perspective, obesity is a leading cause of preventable diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer.[31.1] The economic burden of obesity is staggering, with the annual cost of obesity-related healthcare in the United States alone exceeding $173 billion.[31.1] This financial strain is compounded by the rising prevalence of obesity, which has been linked to urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and increased consumption of high-calorie processed foods.[30.1] Moreover, obesity is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol, leading to severe health complications, including heart disease and kidney disease.[17.1] The implications of obesity extend beyond individual health, affecting healthcare systems and public health policy decisions due to the substantial economic costs associated with treating obesity-related conditions.[30.1]In this section:
History
Evolution of the Understanding of Obesity
The understanding of obesity has evolved significantly from ancient theories to contemporary perspectives that recognize it as a complex chronic disease. In pre-modern times, medical interpretations of obesity were largely influenced by ancient Greek and Roman theories, particularly the four humors theory, which categorized bodily fluids as black bile, yellow bile, phlegm, and blood. This framework limited the understanding of obesity and its implications for health.[57.1] The Enlightenment era marked a pivotal shift in the medical understanding of obesity. Dr. George Cheyne, an influential 18th-century physician, contributed to this transformation by developing new theories about obesity, informed by his personal struggles with weight. Cheyne's work began to challenge the simplistic views of obesity, paving the way for a more nuanced understanding of its causes and consequences.[58.1] In modern times, the perception of obesity has increasingly shifted towards recognizing the role of socio-economic and environmental factors. The rise in global obesity rates, despite advancements in medical knowledge and interventions, has been attributed to the influence of an obesogenic environment, which encompasses the socio-economic, political, and cultural contexts that shape individual behaviors and choices.[59.1] This understanding has prompted public health policies to focus not only on individual behaviors but also on broader community and systemic factors that contribute to obesity.[70.1] Moreover, the advent of a globalized, industrialized food system has disrupted traditional dietary habits, leading to increased consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These foods, characterized by high levels of sugars, fats, and additives, have been linked to the obesity epidemic due to their convenience and palatability, which often overshadow healthier dietary options.[84.1] As such, the evolution of obesity understanding reflects a transition from individual blame to a recognition of the complex interplay between personal choices and environmental influences, necessitating comprehensive public health strategies to address this pressing global health issue.[56.1]Historical Perspectives on Obesity
Obesity has long been recognized as a complex issue, with perceptions and medical understandings evolving over time. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates first acknowledged obesity as a medical disorder, noting that "Corpulence is not only a disease itself, but the harbinger of others" [51.1]. This early recognition contrasted with many cultures that associated obesity with character flaws, often depicting overweight individuals as gluttonous figures in comedic narratives [51.1]. During the Middle Ages, medical interpretations of obesity were influenced by ancient Greek and Roman theories, particularly the four humors theory, which suggested that imbalances in bodily fluids could lead to health issues, including obesity [52.1]. This understanding persisted until the eighteenth century, when technological advancements began to increase food supply and alter public health dynamics [53.1]. The shift from food scarcity, where corpulence was viewed positively, to a context where obesity became linked with chronic diseases marks a significant change in societal attitudes [60.1]. In contemporary discourse, obesity is recognized as a chronic disease with serious health implications, often described as "the single greatest threat to public health for this century" [61.1]. This modern perspective has emerged alongside a growing understanding of systemic factors contributing to the obesity epidemic, including socioenvironmental influences and commercial determinants such as agricultural subsidies and food processing practices [64.1]. Cultural attitudes towards obesity have varied significantly across societies. In some cultures, being overweight has historically symbolized wealth and prosperity, while in others, it has been stigmatized [74.1]. The representation of body image in art and literature has reflected these shifting attitudes, with earlier depictions often celebrating corpulence as a sign of health and fertility, as seen in prehistoric artifacts like the Venus figurines [69.1].In this section:
Epidemiology
Global Trends in Obesity
During the period from August 2021 to August 2023, the prevalence of obesity among adults in the United States was reported at 40.3%, with no significant differences between men and women. The prevalence was notably higher among adults aged 40-59 compared to those aged 20-39 and 60 and older. Additionally, individuals with a bachelor's degree or higher exhibited a lower prevalence of obesity than those with less education.[89.1] In a broader context, as of 2022, approximately 1 in 8 individuals worldwide were living with obesity, a condition that has more than doubled since 1990. The number of adolescents living with obesity has quadrupled during the same period, with a total of 890 million people affected globally.[91.1] In the United States, 23 states reported an adult obesity prevalence of 35% or higher, highlighting significant regional disparities in obesity rates.[90.1] The rise in obesity is attributed to an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, primarily driven by dietary habits and physical activity levels.[91.1] Social factors, including social network structures and norms surrounding body image and eating behaviors, further influence this epidemic by perpetuating unhealthy lifestyle choices.[95.1] Efforts to combat obesity have included various public health strategies aimed at promoting healthy eating and physical activity. These strategies are essential in addressing the environmental and policy-related factors that contribute to obesity, making healthy choices more accessible to the population.[99.1]Demographic Disparities
Demographic factors significantly influence obesity prevalence, with variations evident across different populations. Key demographic variables such as sex, age, race, Hispanic origin, and education level contribute to these differences. For example, in the United States, obesity prevalence varies by ethnicity, with Non-Hispanic Black individuals and those aged 65 years and older being particularly affected.[102.1] Food availability also plays a crucial role in obesity, especially concerning geographical disparities and socioeconomic status. Research shows that individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are more likely to experience higher obesity rates. A study on older adults found that those who frequented fast food restaurants 1-2 times per week, did not meet physical activity guidelines, had low self-efficacy regarding healthy eating, identified as non-Hispanic Black, and lived in high-density fast food neighborhoods were significantly more likely to be obese compared to those in low-density areas.[103.1] There is a pressing need to identify and address factors contributing to the ongoing increase in obesity prevalence. This includes understanding the interplay of demographic characteristics and urbanization levels, as highlighted in studies examining obesity trends among adults in the United States.[104.1]In this section:
Causes Of Obesity
Genetic and Epigenetic Factors
Genetic and epigenetic factors significantly influence obesity by affecting metabolism, appetite regulation, and susceptibility to weight gain. Genetic variations can lead to differences in appetite regulation, impacting hormone production and regulation, such as leptin and ghrelin, which are crucial for appetite control and fat storage. Leptin helps regulate appetite, while ghrelin stimulates hunger, thereby influencing metabolism and appetite.[151.1] [152.1] The behavioural susceptibility theory (BST) suggests that genetic factors contribute to individual differences in weight through variations in appetite regulation, leading to distinct eating behaviors.[153.1] Additionally, epigenetic changes can regulate obesity risk from infancy through adulthood. For example, hypomethylation of the MC4 gene has been linked to increased expression, affecting appetite and food intake, thus influencing obesity risk.[154.1] While genetic factors are significant, their impact is often modified by environmental influences such as diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices. This interplay indicates that although genetic predisposition plays a role in obesity, lifestyle modifications remain crucial for effective weight management.[155.1] Genetic testing can provide insights into an individual's genetic predisposition to obesity, enabling the development of personalized strategies for weight management that consider both genetic and environmental factors.[155.1]Environmental and Lifestyle Influences
Obesity is influenced by a complex interplay of environmental and lifestyle factors that contribute to an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. A significant environmental factor is urban planning, which affects access to healthy food options and recreational opportunities. Low-income neighborhoods often face limited access to nutritious food and fewer spaces for physical activity, leading to higher obesity rates among disadvantaged populations.[137.1] Conversely, effective urban design can enhance health by improving access to healthy food, public transport, and recreational services.[138.1] Initiatives aimed at creating walkable and bikeable communities, increasing green spaces, and ensuring safe public areas have shown promise in promoting physical activity and healthy eating.[139.1] Lifestyle factors also play a crucial role in obesity. Reduced physical activity, poor dietary choices, and inadequate sleep are significant contributors. For instance, lack of sleep has been linked to increased appetite and reduced insulin sensitivity, exacerbating weight gain.[135.1] Additionally, the prevalence of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods in many urban environments complicates efforts to maintain a healthy weight.[134.1] Community-based obesity prevention programs have emerged as effective strategies to address these issues, promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors and reducing obesity rates in urban areas.[141.1] These programs often focus on improving access to healthy food and encouraging physical activity through community engagement and policy interventions.[142.1] Overall, addressing the environmental and lifestyle influences on obesity requires a multi-faceted approach that combines urban planning, community initiatives, and individual behavior changes.Recent Advancements
Advances in Anti-obesity Pharmacotherapy
Recent advancements in anti-obesity pharmacotherapy have significantly transformed obesity management, particularly with the introduction of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. The FDA has approved several GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Liraglutide, Semaglutide, and the dual agonist Tirzepatide, for obesity treatment. Ongoing clinical trials are exploring the efficacy of GLP-1/GIP/glucagon (GCG) triple agonists.[182.1] These third-generation medications have shown remarkable efficacy in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health, revolutionizing care for patients with metabolic diseases.[184.1] GLP-1 receptor agonists work by decreasing hyperglycemia and enhancing satiety, affecting multiple organs such as the pancreas, brain, heart, kidney, and stomach.[184.1] Beyond weight reduction, they have demonstrated positive cardiovascular outcomes, especially in patients with elevated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk.[185.1] However, gastrointestinal disturbances are common side effects that can impact patient adherence. Despite this, real-world data suggest that even modest weight loss after initiating GLP-1 receptor agonists may improve adherence.[186.1] Integrating pharmacotherapy with lifestyle interventions, such as diet and exercise, is crucial for effective obesity management. Current guidelines recommend using anti-obesity medications alongside lifestyle modifications to achieve sustainable weight loss.[204.1] Evidence indicates that group-based lifestyle interventions may be more effective than individual approaches, particularly for patients undergoing drug therapy for obesity.[202.1] Furthermore, systematic reviews show that combining diet and exercise interventions yields better outcomes in body composition changes compared to either intervention alone.[206.1] This multidisciplinary approach addresses weight maintenance challenges and ensures continuity of care while managing potential side effects of pharmacologic interventions.[203.1]Innovations in Treatment Approaches
Recent advancements in obesity treatment have emphasized precision nutrition, which customizes dietary recommendations based on individual metabolic responses influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and lifestyle factors. This approach acknowledges that energy metabolism, intake, and expenditure can be significantly affected by these individual characteristics, leading to more effective weight management strategies.[175.1] By employing advanced technologies for real-time monitoring of dietary intake, physical activity, and physiological parameters, precision nutrition enhances the effectiveness of obesity management.[189.1] Additionally, incorporating behavioral and psychological factors into treatment plans has become increasingly important. Emotional eating, stress, and body image perceptions are critical elements that can impede an individual's ability to maintain a healthy weight. Research indicates that chronic stress and poor body image can create cycles that complicate weight management efforts.[198.1] Addressing these psychological factors through mindfulness-based approaches and self-compassion is essential for improving treatment outcomes.[199.1] The urgency for innovative treatment methods is underscored by the escalating prevalence of obesity, which has reached epidemic levels globally, affecting over 650 million adults.[181.1] Current anti-obesity medications are categorized based on their mechanisms of action, reflecting the need for diverse treatment options to cater to the varying needs of individuals with obesity.[177.1] Despite these advancements, disparities in access to quality obesity care remain a significant challenge that must be addressed to ensure equitable treatment for all individuals.[176.1]Classification Of Obesity
Types of Obesity
Obesity is classified into various types based on factors such as fat distribution, metabolic markers, and associated health risks. This classification is essential for tailoring effective treatment strategies for individuals, as obesity is not a uniform condition but rather a complex and multifactorial disease.[228.1] One common system categorizes obesity by body mass index (BMI), with specific ranges indicating different classes: class 1 (BMI 30 to 34.9), class 2 (BMI 35 to 39.9), and class 3 (BMI over 40).[225.1] These classes underscore the increasing health risks associated with higher BMI levels, which can lead to conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.[225.1] Obesity can also be characterized by the distribution of body fat, often assessed through waist circumference measurements. Central obesity, for example, is identified by waist measurements exceeding 94 cm for men and 80 cm for women of European ancestry, with different thresholds for other ethnic groups.[226.1] This distinction is crucial as central obesity is linked to a higher risk of metabolic disorders compared to general obesity. Furthermore, emotional eating is a significant psychological factor influencing obesity classification. It refers to consuming food in response to emotions rather than hunger, leading to unhealthy dietary patterns and abdominal obesity.[230.1] Research indicates that emotional eating may mediate the relationship between depression and weight gain, suggesting that psychological interventions could be beneficial in obesity treatment plans.[232.1]In this section:
Complications Associated With Obesity
Physical Health Risks
Obesity is a chronic, relapsing, non-communicable multisystem disease characterized by an abnormal and/or excessive accumulation of body fat, posing significant risks to health and quality of life.[264.1] It is associated with serious health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, various cancers (including breast, colon, and endometrial cancers), stroke, gallbladder disease, fatty liver disease, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, arthritis, and infertility.[267.1] These complications are overwhelming healthcare systems globally, with no country having successfully implemented a population-level strategy to reverse the rising trends of obesity.[265.1] In the United States, obesity is a leading preventable cause of death, significantly increasing the risk for numerous health problems.[267.1] Research shows that even modest weight loss of 5% to 10% can substantially improve health outcomes for individuals with obesity, particularly by reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.[266.1] This is crucial as obesity is closely linked to insulin resistance, a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes and is exacerbated by hormonal imbalances associated with excess body fat.[273.1] Additionally, obesity is linked to obstructive sleep apnea, which further elevates the risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.[267.1] The economic impact of obesity and its related health problems is significant, placing a considerable burden on the healthcare system.[268.1] Therefore, addressing obesity is essential not only for individual health but also for public health and economic sustainability.Psychological and Social Impacts
Emotional eating, defined as the consumption of food in response to emotional cues rather than physiological hunger, is a significant behavioral phenomenon linked to obesity and related cardiometabolic disorders such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidaemia.[279.1] This interaction between emotions and eating is complex; emotional states can influence both the quantity and quality of food consumed, while food intake can have affective consequences that may affect subsequent food choices.[280.1] The use of food as a coping mechanism to manage stress and negative emotions is prevalent, particularly among individuals experiencing anxiety and stress.[281.1] However, while emotional eating may provide temporary relief, it is generally not a healthy coping strategy, especially for those who are overweight.[282.1] This cycle of emotional eating can lead to repeated overeating, ultimately contributing to weight gain and obesity.[302.1] Negative self-perceptions, including low self-esteem and negative body image, are significant psychological contributors to obesity. These factors can create a cycle where stress and negative emotions lead to emotional eating, further exacerbating weight issues.[302.1] Cognitive distortions, such as Thought-Shape Fusion (TSF) and Thought-Action Fusion (TAF), are also associated with emotional eating behaviors. These distortions involve the belief that thoughts about food can lead to negative outcomes, such as weight gain and body dissatisfaction.[300.1] Research indicates that negative self-perceptions are a risk factor for disordered eating, which in turn is a risk factor for overweight and obesity.[301.1] Furthermore, emotional abuse during childhood has been linked to disordered eating and obesity, although it is often overlooked in comprehensive models addressing these health issues.[301.1] Therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive therapy, aim to address these cognitive distortions and guide individuals towards healthier thinking patterns and behaviors.[299.1] By reframing negative thoughts and perceptions, individuals may develop more adaptive coping mechanisms that do not rely on emotional eating, thereby promoting healthier eating habits and improving overall psychological well-being.[303.1]Public Health Implications
Policy Responses to Obesity
Obesity has emerged as a critical public health issue, prompting various policy responses aimed at mitigating its prevalence and associated health risks. The increasing rates of obesity, which have doubled or tripled in many countries over the past three decades, necessitate comprehensive strategies that address underlying causes such as urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and the consumption of high-calorie processed foods.[311.1] In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the prevalence of obesity reached 42.4% during the 2017-2018 period, underscoring the urgent need for effective public health interventions.[312.1] Policies targeting obesity prevention are crucial for controlling obesity-related non-communicable diseases (OR-NCDs), including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.[310.1] Recent literature reviews have analyzed the effectiveness of global obesity policies, particularly those focused on improving dietary quality and limiting added sugar intake.[314.1] These policies often emphasize health equity by addressing social determinants of health, promoting access to nutritious foods, and creating opportunities for physical activity in underserved communities.[314.1] Socioeconomic status (SES) significantly influences obesity prevalence, with lower SES often correlating with higher obesity rates due to limited access to healthy food options and resources for physical activity.[321.1] Strategies that consider SES disparities, such as subsidizing healthy food options and enhancing community resources for physical activity, are essential for effective obesity management.[322.1] As obesity rates continue to rise across various demographic groups, particularly among populations of color facing structural barriers, targeted public health interventions are vital.[324.1] The CDC emphasizes the importance of building healthier communities that provide safe spaces for physical activity and ensure access to affordable healthcare and nutritious food.[324.1] These policy responses are crucial for addressing the obesity epidemic and improving public health outcomes.Community Health Initiatives
Community health initiatives targeting obesity increasingly emphasize promoting physical activity through evidence-based strategies. State and local organizations can enhance community design by using health data to support policies that create activity-friendly environments. This involves improving connectivity and access to bicycle, pedestrian, and transit networks, as well as enhancing park coverage and accessibility.[316.1] Community-based interventions have proven effective, particularly in rural and urban areas, by increasing opportunities for physical activity and promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors. For example, a rural Alabama initiative involved 14 coalitions executing 101 physical activity interventions across 16 communities.[317.1] Urban programs have similarly reduced obesity rates through strategies like nutrition education and physical activity promotion.[318.1] Partnerships between hospitals and public health agencies are crucial for these initiatives' success. Effective collaborations often involve shared visions and mutual trust.[332.1] Initiatives like PowerUp engage local stakeholders to modify the food and activity environment, supporting individual lifestyle changes to prevent childhood obesity.[337.1] The Community Coalitions for Change (C3) initiative, involving over 67,000 community members and organizations, highlights the importance of collective community engagement in addressing rural obesity rates.[338.1]References
[2] Obesity - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - National Center for ... — Obesity is the excessive or abnormal accumulation of fat or adipose tissue in the body that impairs health via its association with the risk of development of diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. It is a significant public health epidemic which has progressively worsened over the past 50 years. Obesity is a complex disease and has a multifactorial etiology.
[3] Obesity and overweight - World Health Organization (WHO) — © Credits Obesity and overweight 1 March 2024 Key facts In 2022, 1 in 8 people in the world were living with obesity. Worldwide adult obesity has more than doubled since 1990, and adolescent obesity has quadrupled. Of these, 890 million were living with obesity. Obesity is a chronic complex disease defined by excessive fat deposits that can impair health. Causes of overweight and obesity Overweight and obesity result from an imbalance of energy intake (diet) and energy expenditure (physical activity).
[4] Obesity | Obesity | CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Obesity is a common, serious, and costly chronic disease of adults and children. Obesity is a common, serious, and costly chronic disease of adults and children. Skip directly to site content Skip directly to search. An official website of the United States government. Here's how you know
[8] The Psychosocial Burden of Obesity - PMC — KEY POINTS. Numerous studies have demonstrated a positive association between obesity and various mental health issues, including depression, eating disorders, anxiety, and substance abuse. Obesity impacts individuals' quality of life, with many sufferers experiencing increased stigma and discrimination because of their weight.
[9] Mental Health and Obesity - George Washington University — Mental Illness and obesity often co-occur and certain factors like adverse childhood experiences may contribute to both. When severe mental illness and obesity co-occur, it is important for providers to treat both diseases as chronic and interacting. Weight bias and discrimination can contribute to poor mental health, independent of weight.
[17] Health Risks of Overweight & Obesity - NIDDK — Nearly 9 in 10 people with type 2 diabetes have overweight or obesity.12 Over time, high blood glucose can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, nerve damage, and other health problems. High blood pressure can strain your heart, damage blood vessels, and raise your risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and death.10 Losing enough weight to reach a healthy body mass index range may lower high blood pressure and prevent or control related health problems. Having overweight or obesity increases your risk of developing conditions that can lead to heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and high blood glucose. Obesity raises the risk of developing diabetes and high blood pressure, which are the most common causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
[30] How Much Does Obesity Cost the U.S? — Beyond its impact on physical and mental well-being, obesity carries a solid financial burden that echoes throughout the nation's healthcare system, economy, and society. A recent report released by the Milken Institute shows that the annual cost and the economic impact of obesity in the United States exceeds $1.4 trillion.
[31] Fast Facts: Health and Economic Costs of Chronic Conditions — Fast Facts: Health and Economic Costs of Chronic Conditions | Chronic Disease | CDC Chronic diseases account for most illness, disability, and death in the United States and are the leading drivers of health care costs. Obesity affects 20% of children and 42% of adults, putting them at risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.10 Just over 1 in 3 young adults aged 17 to 24 are too heavy to join the U.S. military.11 Obesity costs the U.S. health care system nearly $173 billion a year.12 It can lead to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, and obesity.23 Physical inactivity also costs the nation $117 billion a year for related health care.24
[51] The History Of Obesity Timeline - HistoWiki — The Greeks were the first to recognize obesity as a medical disorder. Hippocrates wrote that "Corpulence is not only a disease itself, but the harbinger of others". ~600 B.C.: Many cultures throughout history have viewed obesity as the result of a character flaw. The obesus or fat character in Greek comedy was a glutton and figure of mockery.
[52] The Evolution of Obesity: From Ancient Times to Modern-Day Epidemic — During the Middle Ages, medical understanding of obesity was limited and often based on ancient Greek and Roman theories. Physicians primarily viewed obesity through the lens of the four humors theory: Black bile; Yellow bile; Phlegm; Blood; Imbalances in these humors were thought to cause various health issues, including obesity.
[53] A History of Obesity, or How What Was Good Became Ugly and Then Bad — Chronic food shortage and malnutrition have been the scourge of humankind from the dawn of history. The current worldwide epidemic of obesity, now recognized as a public health crisis, is barely a few decades old. Only after the technological advances of the eighteenth century did a gradual increase in food supply became available. The initial effect of these advances in improved public health
[56] Obesity Prevention Policies in U.S. States and Localities: Lessons from ... — While several obesity-related public policies also exist at the federal level such as the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education program, Safe Routes to School funding, the goal for this review was to examine the broad range of policy strategies that state, local, and/or school districts have adopted and implemented in recent years and highlight areas where policy opportunities and continued research on the impact of such policies is needed. Riis and colleagues examined the cross-sectional association between obesity prevalence among youth aged 10–17 in 2007 as obtained from the NSCH and the strength of state snack food and beverage laws as obtained from the NCI’s School Nutrition Environment State Policy Classification System (SNESPCS; available at http://class.cancer.gov) .
[57] The Evolution of Obesity: From Ancient Times to Modern-Day Epidemic ... — A. Medical understanding of obesity in pre-modern times. During the Middle Ages, medical understanding of obesity was limited and often based on ancient Greek and Roman theories. Physicians primarily viewed obesity through the lens of the four humors theory: Black bile; Yellow bile; Phlegm; Blood
[58] Exploring the History of Obesity: Ancient Times to Today — The Enlightenment era brought significant changes to the medical understanding of obesity. Dr. George Cheyne, a prominent 18th-century physician, played a crucial role in shaping this understanding. Initially struggling with his own weight issues, Cheyne's personal experiences led him to develop new theories about obesity . He shifted away
[59] The evolution of obesity and the origin of adipose tissue — The increasing global prevalence of obesity despite all medical precautions and pharmacological treatments results from the understanding that imposes the problems of the neoliberal socio-economic, political, cultural and academic order into which we are born, on the biological structure of individuals, but ignores the effect of an obesogenic environment.
[60] A history of obesity, or how what was good became ugly and ... - PubMed — Obesity as a chronic disease with well-defined pathologic consequences is less than a century old. The scarcity of food throughout most of history had led to connotations that being fat was good, and that corpulence and increased "flesh" were desirable as reflected in the arts, literature, and medical opinion of the times.
[61] Regarding Obesity as a Disease: Evolving Policies and Their ... — With the recognition that obesity is responsible for a growing prevalence chronic diseases, obesity has come to be regarded as "the single greatest threat to public health for this century. ... Eknoyan G. A history of obesity, or how what was good became ugly and then bad. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis. 2006;13(4):421-7. doi: 10.1053/j.ackd.2006.
[64] Global Changes in Food Supply and the Obesity Epidemic — Purpose of Review We explore how a global shift in the food system caused by global economic growth, increase in available food per capita and in food processing is a driver of the obesity epidemic. Recent Findings Economic development in most areas of the world has resulted in increased purchasing power and available per capita food. Supermarkets and a growing fast-food industry have
[69] A History of Obesity, or How What Was Good Became Ugly and Then Bad — current epidemic of obesity. Cultural Connotations The scarcity of food throughout most of hu-man history and consequent connotations that being fat was good and that corpulence and increased "flesh" were desirable are reflected in the arts, literature, and politics of the times. The gross obesity of the mother goddess of the
[70] Media and Its Influence on Obesity - PubMed — Purpose of review: To review how the media frames obesity and the effect it has upon on public perceptions. Recent findings: The scientific and public health understanding of obesity increasingly points away from individual behaviors and toward medical and community factors, but diffusion of this knowledge is slow. Growing awareness of the importance of body positivity is driving attention to
[74] Historical and cultural aspects of obesity: From a symbol of wealth and ... — For many decades, excessive body weight has been considered rather a symbol of health. It was a marker of wealth and prosperity, as well as a sign of high social status. The centuries that passed on the development of science and medicine have gradually changed its face, but significant progress in understanding the causes and consequences of
[84] Ultra-Processed Food Intake and Increased Risk of Obesity: A ... - MDPI — The prevalence of obesity has become a global health concern, with significant impacts on quality of life and mortality rates. Recent research has highlighted the role of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in driving the obesity epidemic. UPFs undergo extensive processing, often containing high levels of sugars, fats, and additives, while lacking essential nutrients. Studies have linked UPF
[89] Obesity and Severe Obesity Prevalence in Adults: United States, August ... — Key findings: During August 2021-August 2023, the prevalence of obesity in adults was 40.3%, with no significant differences between men and women. Obesity prevalence was higher in adults ages 40-59 than in ages 20-39 and 60 and older. The prevalence of obesity was lower in adults with a bachelor's degree or more than in adults with less education. The prevalence of severe obesity in
[90] Obesity Data and Statistics | Obesity | CDC — Obesity Data and Statistics | Obesity | CDC Official websites use .govA .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. Obesity About Obesity Obesity Data and Statistics About Healthy Weight and Growth | Body Mass Index (BMI) | About Nutrition | About Physical Activity About Obesity Obesity Data and Statistics View All Obesity Obesity Data and Statistics 23 states had an adult obesity prevalence at or above 35%. Data and statistics on the prevalence of obesity among U.S. adults. Data and statistics on the prevalence of obesity among US children and adolescents. Obesity CDC's obesity prevention efforts focus on policy and environmental strategies to make healthy eating and active living accessible for everyone. About Obesity Obesity Data and Statistics
[91] Obesity and overweight - World Health Organization (WHO) — © Credits Obesity and overweight 1 March 2024 Key facts In 2022, 1 in 8 people in the world were living with obesity. Worldwide adult obesity has more than doubled since 1990, and adolescent obesity has quadrupled. Of these, 890 million were living with obesity. Obesity is a chronic complex disease defined by excessive fat deposits that can impair health. Causes of overweight and obesity Overweight and obesity result from an imbalance of energy intake (diet) and energy expenditure (physical activity).
[95] The role of the "Healthy Weight" discourse in body image and eating ... — Sociocultural theories of the development of body image and eating disorders have highlighted the causal role of the social discourse glorifying thinness and vilifying overweight (Levine & Murnen, 2009).This discourse places pressure upon individuals to attain an unrealistically slender, lean, toned and muscular ideal, which can result in body image dissatisfaction and disordered eating
[99] Obesity Strategies: What Can Be Done | Obesity | CDC — About Healthy Weight and Growth | Body Mass Index (BMI) | About Nutrition | About Physical Activity Access to healthy, affordable foods and safe, convenient places for physical activity can impact obesity. Funding programs and providing training and resources for initiatives that promote healthy eating, food and nutrition security, and physical activity. Supporting the HHS Food Is Medicine initiative in collaboration with other federal partners, organizations, and communities to prevent, manage, and treat diet-related disease states and promote health and wellbeing through food and nutrition. Refer patients with obesity who are interested in losing weight to improve their health to intensive lifestyle programs, including Family Healthy Weight Programs and the National Diabetes Prevention Program. CDC's obesity prevention efforts focus on policy and environmental strategies to make healthy eating and active living accessible for everyone.
[102] Differences in Obesity Prevalence by Demographic Characteristics and ... — Demographic variables included sex, age group, race and Hispanic origin, and education level because previous analyses have shown differences in the prevalence of obesity by these factors. 2,9,10 Participant age was categorized in the following age groups: 20 to 39 years, 40 to 59 years, and 60 years or older.
[103] Social and Environmental Factors Influencing Obesity — Food availability remains an important factor associated with obesity that relates to differences in prevalence seen across geographical areas and higher rates of obesity within low socioeconomic status individuals. For example, one study in older adults showed that residents who ate 1-2 times per week at a fast food restaurant (odds ratio [OR]: 1.878), did not meet current physical activity guidelines (OR: 1.792), had low self-efficacy for eating healthy food (OR: 1.212), or identified as non-Hispanic black (OR: 8.057) and lived in a high density fast food neighborhood were more likely to have obesity than older adults who lived in a low density fast food neighborhood (20).
[104] Epidemiology of Obesity in Adults: Latest Trends - PMC — Greater efforts are needed to identify factors contributing to the continued increases in obesity. Keywords: Obesity, Prevalence, Population ... Carroll MD, Freedman DS, Aoki Y, Ogden CL: Differences in Obesity Prevalence by Demographic Characteristics and Urbanization Level Among Adults in the United States, 2013-2016. JAMA. 2018, 319(23
[134] Obesity and overweight - World Health Organization (WHO) — © Credits Obesity and overweight 1 March 2024 Key facts In 2022, 1 in 8 people in the world were living with obesity. Worldwide adult obesity has more than doubled since 1990, and adolescent obesity has quadrupled. Of these, 890 million were living with obesity. Obesity is a chronic complex disease defined by excessive fat deposits that can impair health. Causes of overweight and obesity Overweight and obesity result from an imbalance of energy intake (diet) and energy expenditure (physical activity).
[135] Causes of obesity: a review - PMC — Lack of sleep reduces glucose intolerance, insulin sensitivity and leptin levels and increases the levels of cortisol and ghrelin (and, therefore, appetite).62 Sleep and exercise are mutually beneficial because exercise has long been known to contribute to a good night's sleep and recent research has shown that poor sleep results in low levels of physical activity.63 One study also found that a change in the mean duration of sleep increased the risk of obesity by modifying the effects of fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) variants on BMI.64
[137] How urban planning affects obesity rates and its societal consequences ... — The Impact of Urban Planning on Society inequities in Health: Urban planning can lead to health inequities. Low-income neighborhoods frequently have less access to healthy food alternatives, less recreational opportunities, and less walkability, increasing obesity rates among disadvantaged groups.
[138] Local Food Environments, Suburban Development, and BMI: A Mixed Methods ... — However, urban design and planning can modify urban form and enhance health by improving access to healthy food, public transport, and services. This study used a sequential mixed methods approach to investigate associations between food outlet access and body mass index (BMI) across urban-growth and established areas of Melbourne, Australia
[139] The influence of the built environment on obesity prevalence: public ... — Creating healthier environments requires a multi-pronged approach involving urban planning, policy interventions, and community-based initiatives.. Urban planning and design strategies to promote physical activity and healthy eating:. Strategies such as creating walkable and bikeable communities, increasing access to green spaces and parks, and improving the safety and accessibility of public
[141] PDF — In conclusion, community-based obesity prevention programs play a critical role in addressing the obesity epidemic in urban areas. These programs have shown promising results in promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors and reducing obesity rates among local residents. However, challenges exist in implementing and
[142] Recommended Community Strategies and Measurements to Prevent Obesity in ... — The Community Guide indicated that community-scale urban design and land use policies and practices, including locating schools, stores, workplaces, and recreation areas close to residential areas, are effective in facilitating an increase in levels of physical activity (23,108). A simulation modeling study conducted by the U.S. Environmental
[151] Genetics and the Influence on Obesity: Understanding the Role — In addition to metabolism, genetics can also affect appetite regulation. Genetic variations can make some individuals more prone to overeating or having an increased appetite, leading to weight gain and obesity.
[152] Understanding the Genetic Factors Impacting Obesity and its ... — Genetic factors can also affect the production and regulation of hormones related to weight management, such as leptin and ghrelin. Leptin is a hormone that helps regulate appetite and fat storage, while ghrelin stimulates hunger. Genetic variations can impact the levels and functioning of these hormones, influencing appetite, metabolism, and
[153] The Role of Eating Behaviours in Genetic Susceptibility to Obesity — A key theoretical framework called the behavioural susceptibility theory (BST) hypothesises that genetic factors influence individual differences in weight through variation in appetite regulation, which is expressed as a range of distinct eating behaviours .
[154] Epigenetic regulation in obesity - PubMed — More recently work has focused on how such epigenetic changes continue to regulate risk of obesity from infancy through to adulthood. Work has shown that, for example, hypomethylation of the MC4 gene causes an increase in expression, and has a direct impact on appetite and intake, and thus influences risk of obesity.
[155] Understanding the Genetic Factors Impacting Obesity and its ... — Genetic factors can influence an individual’s susceptibility to weight gain and obesity, but their impact is modified by environmental factors such as exercise, inheritance, polymorphism, hormones, diet, and lifestyle choices. In conclusion, genetic testing can provide valuable insights into the link between genes and weight gain, helping individuals understand their genetic predisposition to obesity and develop personalized strategies for weight management. By understanding the role of genes in obesity and developing targeted interventions, it may be possible to overcome the genetic factors that contribute to weight gain and provide more effective treatments for individuals with obesity. While lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise play a crucial role in managing obesity, there is growing evidence suggesting that genetic factors also contribute to an individual’s susceptibility to weight gain.
[175] Precision Nutrition: Recent Advances in Obesity - PubMed — Precision Nutrition: Recent Advances in Obesity - PubMed Precision Nutrition: Recent Advances in Obesity Precision Nutrition: Recent Advances in Obesity This review highlights the recent advances in precision nutrition as applied to obesity and projects the importance of precision nutrition in obesity and weight management. Individuality in metabolic response to diet/nutrition intake Components of energy metabolism, energy intake and expenditure, have been shown to be altered or modified by genetic variants and/or epigenetic modifications, microbial species and metabolites, lifestyle, and social and psychological factors, with serious implications for obesity. Gene-Diet Interaction and Precision Nutrition in Obesity. doi: 10.1186/1475-2840-11-137. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21106. - DOI - PMC - PubMed - DOI - PMC - PubMed doi:10.1038/s41591-020-0934-0. - DOI - PMC - PubMed
[176] A new era in obesity management - Nature — Current advancements in obesity treatment have led to substantial improvements in patient outcomes. However, there is an urgent need to address the disparities in access and quality of obesity care 7.
[177] Recent advancements in drug treatment of obesity - PMC — Research fellow. Find articles by Rebeca Carter. 1, Angelina Mouralidarane. ... Anti-obesity medications in current or recent use can be categorised according to one of three modes of ... Its growing impact on healthcare systems is becoming unsustainable and urgent advances in treatment are needed. Obesity is still widely decried as a lifestyle
[181] Medical Management of Obesity: Current Trends and Future Perspectives — The global obesity epidemic has become a significant public health concern, with 1.9 billion adults estimated to be overweight and roughly 650 million of those with obesity. 1 Obesity is associated with a wide range of metabolic consequences, including an increased risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cardiovascular
[182] Comparative efficacy and safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight ... — The FDA has approved glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists such as Liraglutide, Semaglutide, and the GLP-1/gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) dual agonist Tirzepatide for the treatment of obesity. Clinical trials of GLP-1/GIP/glucagon(GCG) triple agonists are ongoing. This study compared the efficacy and safety profiles of
[184] Multisociety Clinical Practice Guidance for the Safe Use of Glucagon ... — Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have revolutionized the care of patients with metabolic disease due in part to the agonists' unique combination of effects, including decreasing hyperglycemia and enhancement of satiety.1,2 GLP-1, a naturally secreted polypeptide, acts on the GLP-1R in multiple organs, including the pancreas, brain, heart, kidney, and stomach.3 In the
[185] The Role of GLP-1RA Medications in Medical Weight Loss and ... - Springer — Purpose of Review Obesity pharmacotherapy is rapidly evolving with the ability of glucagon-like peptide- 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) to improve atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) outcomes. This review focuses on how GLP-1RAs impact lipid-related outcomes. Recent Findings Beyond weight reduction, GLP-1RAs have shown positive cardiovascular outcomes in patients with elevated ASCVD
[186] Real-world weight change, adherence, and discontinuation among patients ... — Furthermore, GLP-1 RAs are known to cause gastrointestinal disturbances, and while these effects may subside after initial use, they have been shown to negatively impact adherence and persistence. 11 12 Conversely, an analysis of real-world data in the USA showed that modest weight loss after initiating GLP-1 RAs may increase patient adherence. 10
[189] The Future of Obesity Management through Precision Nutrition: Putting ... — Precision nutrition requires an in-depth quantitative level of information from genetics and digital health profiles using technology-based assessment methods for dietary intake, physical activity (e.g. Fitbit, Garmin, Polar), flash (e.g. Abbott FreeStyle Libre), or real-time blood glucose levels (e.g. Nintamed Dexon G6, Medtronic Guardian Connect, Senseonics Eversense), blood pressure (e.g. Qardio Arm, Omron RS8, HeartGuide, CNAP2GO), heart health (e.g. Qardio Chest, iHeart) and sleep (e.g. ActiGraph, Fitbit, Garmin, Fatigue Science) [59, 60, 61•, 62,63,64]. By objective and real-time (or continuous) monitoring of individuals’ dietary intake, physical activity, physiological parameters (heart rate, blood glucose levels, sleep), or gut microbiota composition, precision nutrition has immense potential to improve the effectiveness of obesity management .
[198] How Your Emotional Health and Weight Are Connected — Chronic stress, poor body image, and restrictive dieting can all create cycles that make it harder to maintain a healthy weight. By recognizing emotional triggers, practicing self-compassion, and finding healthier ways to cope with stress, you can start to break these cycles.
[199] Perceived Stress Mediates the Relationship of Body Image and Depressive ... — The results underline the importance of identifying promising stress management techniques and addressing perceived stress e.g. through mindfulness based approaches in the (lifestyle and/or weight) interventions for obesity taking into account the specific stressors of obesity affected individuals such as body image.
[202] Structured lifestyle modification as an adjunct to obesity ... — It may be that group-based lifestyle interventions are more effective than individual ones in patients on drug therapy for obesity, consistent with findings from other lifestyle intervention
[203] Pharmacologic Therapy for Obesity - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf — Implement evidence-based pharmacologic interventions as part of a multidisciplinary approach to manage obesity, integrating medications into a comprehensive treatment plan. Coordinate long-term care plans, ensuring continuity and addressing challenges related to weight maintenance and potential side effects of pharmacologic interventions.
[204] Pharmacologic Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults — Obesity pharmacotherapy has evolved significantly over the past 60 years. Today, six anti-obesity medications (AOMs) are approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for the long-term treatment of obesity. Similar in approach to other chronic diseases, AOMs are indicated in combination with lifestyle modification for the management of overweight and obesity. Current guidelines recommend
[206] Diet, exercise or diet with exercise: comparing the effectiveness of ... — When combined with diet, exercise interventions were more effective at inducing responses in body compositional changes than either an exercise, or diet, alone option for intervention. The effectiveness for exercise becomes more pronounced with higher levels of intensity of exercise regardless of the methodology employed (i.e. ET, RT, or
[225] Obesity Classes: What Obesity Classes 1 to 3 Mean - Verywell Health — A BMI of 30 to 34.9 is considered obesity class 1, 35 to 39.9 is obesity class 2, and over 40 is obesity class 3. Having obesity is considered a risk factor for a number of health conditions, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The risk for health conditions goes up on a continuum as BMI goes up.
[226] Definitions, Classification, and Epidemiology of Obesity — The recognition that being overweight or having obesity is a chronic disease and not simply due to poor self-control or a lack of will power comes from the past 70 years of research that has been steadily gaining insight into the physiology that governs body weight (homeostatic mechanisms involved in sensing and adapting to changes in the body’s internal metabolism, food availability, and activity levels so as to maintain fat content and body weight stability), the pathophysiology that leads to unwanted weight gain maintenance, and the roles that excess weight and fat maldistribution (adiposity) play in contributing to diabetes, dyslipidemia, heart disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and many other chronic diseases (5,6).
[228] Understanding Obesity Types: A Comprehensive Guide - Medicover Hospitals — Classification of Obesity Types. Obesity is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It is classified into different types based on various factors such as distribution of fat in the body, metabolic markers, and associated health risks. Understanding these classifications can help tailor effective treatment strategies for individuals.
[230] Emotional Eating and Dietary Patterns: Reflecting Food Choices in ... — Emotional eating (EE) is food consumption in response to feelings rather than hunger. EE is related to unhealthy food intake and abdominal obesity (AO). However, little evidence exists about the association between EE and dietary patterns (DPs) and
[232] Causes of Emotional Eating and Matched Treatment of Obesity — Emotional eating may also act as a mediator between depression and body mass index or weight gain. This finding is of interest for both obesity interventions and interventions for atypical depression. A matched treatment approach of obesity is suggested, an approach that matches the treatment to the specific eating style of the individual.
[264] An overview of obesity‐related complications: The epidemiological ... — 1 INTRODUCTION. Obesity is a chronic, relapsing, non-communicable multisystem disease characterised by an abnormal and/or excessive accumulation of body fat that presents a risk to health. 1, 2 Obesity impairs quality of life and contributes to a reduced life expectancy mainly because of several related complications including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver diseases, cardiovascular
[265] Adult obesity complications: challenges and clinical impact — The complications associated with adult obesity are overwhelming national healthcare systems. No country has yet implemented a successful population-level strategy to reverse the rising trends of obesity. ... Figure 1 provides an overview of selected interventions, superimposed onto a modified social ecological model, that have been implemented
[266] Obesity: Risk factors, complications, and strategies for sustainable ... — Obesity is associated with a range of comorbidities, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and cancer; however, modest weight loss in the 5%–10% range, and above, can significantly improve health‐related outcomes. Three major long‐term studies, the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), the Diabetes Prevention Study (DPS), and the Da Qing IGT and Diabetes (Da Qing) study, have demonstrated that modest weight loss through short‐term lifestyle or pharmacologic interventions can reduce the risk for developing T2D by 58%, 58%, and 31%, respectively, in individuals with obesity and prediabetes (DPP Research Group et al., 2009; Pan et al., 1997; Tuomilehto et al., 2001). Many individuals with obesity or overweight have unrealistic goals of 20%–30% weight loss, whereas a more realistic goal would be the loss of 5%–15% of the initial body weight (Fabricatore et al., 2007).
[267] Overview of Obesity - Johns Hopkins Medicine — Overweight and obesity together make up one of the leading preventable causes of death in the U.S. Obesity is a chronic disease that can seriously affect your health. Being overweight or obese raises your risk for health problems. Who's obese? Your healthcare providers use BMI to find out your risk for obesity-related diseases. What causes obesity? Sleep apnea is also linked to high blood pressure, increased risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and can even cause an early death. Among obese people assigned female at birth, the risk increases for cancer of the endometrium or the lining of the uterus. Obese people assigned female at birth also increase their risk for breast cancers in those who have gone through menopause. People who are obese are at increased risk for colorectal cancer.
[268] Consequences of Obesity | Overweight & Obesity | CDC — Consequences of Obesity | Overweight & Obesity | CDC Overweight & Obesity Overweight & Obesity About Overweight & Obesity About Overweight & Obesity Defining Adult Overweight & Obesity Adult Obesity Facts State and Local StrategiesPriority Strategy: Early Care and Education (ECE) Overweight & Obesity People who have obesity, compared to those with a healthy weight, are at increased risk for many serious diseases and health conditions. In addition, obesity and its associated health problems have a significant economic impact on the US health care system. Obesity in children and adults increases the risk for the following health conditions.1,2,3 Obesity as adults. The economic impact of obesity in the United States. Obesity Basicsplus icon Defining Adult Overweight & Obesity Adult Obesity Facts Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Youtube Pinterest Snapchat RSS
[273] Mechanisms linking obesity to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes — Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In obese individuals, adipose tissue releases increased amounts of non-esterified fatty acids, glycerol, hormones, pro-inflammatory cytokines and other factors that are involved in the development of i …
[279] The global prevalence of emotional eating in overweight and obese ... — BACKGROUND. Emotional eating, characterized by the consumption of food in response to emotional cues rather than physiological hunger, has emerged as a pervasive behavioural phenomenon associated with obesity and obesity-related cardiometabolic disorders such as diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidaemia (Frayn & Knäuper, 2018; Gibson, 2012; van Strien et al., 2007).
[280] Emotional eating and obesity in adults: the role of depression, sleep ... — Emotions and eating are both inherent and recurring part of our daily lives. Research has also demonstrated that they interact with each other in multiple ways: emotional states influence the quantity and quality of foods eaten, and food intake has affective consequences that may influence subsequent food choices (Reference Gibson, Shepherd and Raats 1).
[281] The Association of Emotional Eating with Overweight/Obesity ... - MDPI — These types of eating act as a coping mechanism to control and decrease ... Saldaña, C. The behavioral pathway model to overweight and obesity: Coping strategies, eating behaviors and body mass index. ... A. Determining the relationship between anxiety levels, stress coping styles, and emotional eating of women in the COVID-19 pandemic.
[282] Laugh Away the Fat? Therapeutic Humor in the Control of Stress-induced ... — Whether or not eating represents an effective coping mechanism for stress in terms of elevating affect, two facts remain clear: one is that emotional eating is a real phenomenon and is present in a large portion of the overweight population; second, this coping mechanism is not a healthy one for most of those who use it.
[299] Behavioral Approaches to Obesity Treatment - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf — Cognitive therapy: Some patients with obesity may verbalize thoughts lacking in validity, known as cognitive distortions. Cognitive therapy targets these cognitive distortions and guides them towards less maladaptive thinking, behavior, and emotional reactions. Compared with MI, the cognitive shift is the key mechanism of change.
[300] Susceptibility to cognitive distortions: the role of eating pathology ... — Thought-Shape Fusion (TSF) and Thought-Action Fusion (TAF) are cognitive distortions that are associated with eating and obsessional pathology respectively. Both involve the underlying belief that mere thoughts and mental images can lead to negative outcomes. TSF involves the belief that food-related thoughts lead to weight gain, body dissatisfaction, and perceptions of moral wrong-doing.
[301] A mediational model of obesity related disordered eating: The roles of ... — The extant literature indicates negative self-perceptions are a risk factor for disordered eating (DE) and DE is a risk factor for overweight and obesity. While childhood emotional abuse (EA) is often linked to DE and obesity, it is typically not included in comprehensive models of these health problems.
[302] The Psychological Factors of Obesity and How to Overcome Them — This can create a cycle of emotional eating, where stress and negative emotions prompt repeated overeating, ultimately contributing to weight gain and obesity (Harvard Health). Negative Body Image and Low Self-Esteem Negative body image and low self-esteem are also significant psychological contributors to obesity. Many people who struggle with
[303] The Association of Emotional Eating with Overweight/Obesity ... - PubMed — The Association of Emotional Eating with Overweight/Obesity, Depression, Anxiety/Stress, and Dietary Patterns: A Review of the Current Clinical Evidence The Association of Emotional Eating with Overweight/Obesity, Depression, Anxiety/Stress, and Dietary Patterns: A Review of the Current Clinical Evidence The objective of this study is to summarize and evaluate the interconnections among emotional eating and overweight/obesity, depression, anxiety/stress, and dietary patterns; (2) Methods: This is a thorough review of the reported associations among emotional eating and overweight/obesity, depression, anxiety/stress, and dietary patterns. Future studies should further explain the underlying mechanisms of the interconnections among emotional eating and overweight/obesity, depression, anxiety/stress, and dietary patterns. anxiety; depression; dietary patterns; emotional eating; mental health; nutrition; obesity; overweight; stress.
[310] Public Health Considerations Regarding Obesity — Continuing Education Activity Obesity is an alarmingly increasing global public health issue. Several countries worldwide have witnessed a double or triple escalation in the prevalence of obesity in the last three decades, probably due to urbanization, sedentary lifestyle, and increase consumption of high-calorie processed food. Obesity prevention is a critical factor in controlling Obesity-related Non-communicable diseases (OR-NCDs), including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, hypertension, cancer, and psychological problems. This activity reviews the public health considerations in obesity and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in developing public health strategies for the management and prevention of this condition.
[311] Public Health Considerations Regarding Obesity - PubMed — Excerpt Obesity is an alarmingly increasing global public health issue. Obesity is labeled as a national epidemic, and obesity affects one in three adults and one in six children in the United States of America. Several countries worldwide have witnessed a double or triple escalation in the prevalence of obesity in the last three decades (Figure 1, Figure2), probably due to urbanization
[312] Obesity and Overweight: Probing Causes, Consequences, and Novel ... — In the United States, overweight and obesity are chronic diseases that contribute to excess morbidity and mortality. Despite public health efforts, these disorders are on the rise, and their consequences are burgeoning. 1 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that during 2017 to 2018, the prevalence of obesity in the United States was 42.4%, which was increased from the
[314] Public Policies on Obesity: A Literature Review of Global Challenges ... — The outcome reveals regional differences in obesity rates and provides an analysis of the policies that countries have implemented to address obesity and their effectiveness, in particular concerning improving the quality of diets and limiting the intake of added sugars. This literature review used electronic databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar) to search for articles on overweight and obesity policy settings worldwide from 2008 to 2023 based on keywords “obesity”, “policy”, “nutrition”, and “global”. Obesity policies that focus on health equity can help reduce health disparities by addressing social determinants of health, promoting access to affordable and nutritious foods, and providing opportunities for physical activity in underserved communities.
[316] Strategies for Physical Activity Through Community Design — To increase physical activity, state and local organizations can support strategies to improve community design. Use data on health conditions, health behaviors, and local capacity to support policies and plans for activity-friendly community design*. Collaborate with partners to support new or improved plans and policies, activity-friendly districts, and/or other activities to create activity-friendly communities.+ Examples include: Systems: Increase bicycle, pedestrian, and transit (where applicable) network connectivity and access, park coverage and accessibility, and incentives for activity-friendly project evaluation or supportive land development, such as plans to address vacant lots or deteriorated areas. Helps committed, cross-sector teams create an action plan to improve community environments that promote physical activity and meet the needs of their community. These communities support physical activity through community design by supporting activity friendly routes to everyday destinations.
[317] The High Obesity Program: A Collaboration Between Public Health and ... — Carter and colleagues summarized findings from a community-based obesity reduction and prevention initiative implemented to increase opportunities for physical activity among residents in rural Alabama (5). This initiative worked with 14 community coalitions to implement 101 interventions related to physical activity throughout 16 communities.
[318] PDF — Community-based obesity prevention programs have shown promising results in urban areas, demonstrating the potential to reduce obesity rates and promote healthy lifestyle behaviors among residents. These programs typically involve a combination of strategies such as nutrition education, physical activity promotion, policy
[321] Socioeconomic Status and Obesity - PubMed — Socioeconomic status (SES), which includes factors such as income, educational attainment, occupational prestige, and access to resources, is a key determinant of obesity. In this scoping mini-review, we summarized review articles and meta-analyses of the SES-obesity association.
[322] Socioeconomic inequalities in the healthiness of food choices ... — In mediation analyses, 63% of the socioeconomic differences in choices of less-healthy foods/beverages were mediated by expenditure, and 36% for fruit and vegetables, but these figures were reduced to 53% and 31% respectively when controlling for supermarket choice. This study extends explorations of the role of food costs as a mediator of socioeconomic inequalities in healthiness of choices; firstly, by looking at actual expenditure (rather than estimated diet costs) in a large UK sample. Further exploration of the role of expenditure suggested this may be a significant mediator of socioeconomic inequalities in healthiness of food and beverage choices, as has been found in US studies, using different indicators of SES and diet quality (Aggarwal et al., 2011).
[324] New CDC Data Show Adult Obesity Prevalence Remains High — New CDC Data Show Adult Obesity Prevalence Remains High | CDC Newsroom New CDC Data Show Adult Obesity Prevalence Remains High New CDC population data from 2023 show that in 23 states more than one in three adults (35%) has obesity. "This new data highlight the need for obesity prevention and treatment options, which start with building healthier communities where people of all ages have safe places for physical activity, and where health care and healthy food options are accessible and affordable for all," said Karen Hacker, MD, MPH, director of CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. CDC partners with communities, states, and tribes to help improve health and reduce obesity among populations with the highest risk, or burden, of chronic diseases across the country.
[332] Public Health and Hospitals: Lessons Learned From Partnerships in a ... — In it, we compiled a list of successful partnerships involving hospitals and public health agencies, distilled the lessons learned from their experiences, and developed eight core characteristics and 11 evidence-based recommendations to guide others' efforts to build successful community partnerships. They are described in the resulting report. 2
[337] The Potential of Community-Wide Initiatives in the Prevention of ... — PowerUp is one example of an effort to change the food and activity environment and support individual lifestyle change through a community-wide engagement initiative. PowerUp is an opportunity for Lakeview, as the primary health care system in the targeted geographical areas, to lead the effort to prevent obesity in children in the St. Croix
[338] Community Coalitions for Change and the Policy, Systems, and ... — The community-based participatory initiative, Community Coalitions for Change (C3), was embraced by 67,400 community members and 67 organizations. During year 1, coalition members discussed a need to return to long-held traditions of collective community engagement and action to address rural obesity rates.