What is Obesity and How Does it Develop?

Obesity is a condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body, negatively affecting not only physical appearance but also overall health. According to the World Health Organization, obesity is one of the most common preventable health problems worldwide. However, obesity is not solely caused by overeating or inactivity; genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors also play significant roles.

In this article, we will explain how obesity develops in the body and impacts health, in a way that is easy to understand.

Energy balance refers to the relationship between the energy we consume from food and the energy we expend. When energy intake exceeds expenditure, the excess is stored as fat. Over time, this chronic fat storage leads to obesity.

However, obesity is not just about consuming too many calories; how the body processes these calories also matters. For instance, high-sugar and high-fat diets can lead to insulin resistance, disrupting the body’s energy metabolism.

Several hormones regulate appetite, energy usage, and fat storage in the body. In obesity, the balance of these hormones is disrupted:

• Leptin: Sends the brain the signal “I’m full.” However, in obesity, leptin resistance develops, and the brain cannot correctly interpret this message, leading to overeating.
• Ghrelin: Known as the “hunger hormone,” it stimulates appetite before meals and decreases after eating. In obese individuals, ghrelin levels may remain persistently high.
• Insulin: Regulates blood sugar levels, but in obesity, insulin resistance occurs, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Obesity is associated with low-grade chronic inflammation. As fat tissue increases, the immune system perceives this as a threat, triggering an inflammatory response. Signals from inflamed fat tissue can cause insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases.

Key contributors to this process include:

• TNF-α and IL-6: These inflammatory molecules disrupt metabolic balance.
• Macrophages: The accumulation of immune cells in fat tissue further amplifies chronic inflammation.

While obesity may have a genetic basis, genetic factors usually combine with environmental influences to cause obesity. For individuals with a genetic predisposition, unhealthy lifestyle choices can significantly exacerbate the condition.

Examples include:

• Genetic factors influencing metabolic rate and fat storage.
• Environmental factors such as poor dietary habits and low physical activity, particularly in childhood.

The bacteria in our gut play a critical role in energy metabolism and immune function. Disruption in the gut microbiota balance can increase energy storage and make weight management more challenging. In obese individuals, beneficial bacteria may decrease while harmful ones become more dominant.

To maintain a healthy gut microbiota:

• Consume a fiber-rich diet,
• Include fermented foods (e.g., kefir, yogurt),
• Limit unnecessary antibiotic use.

Obesity is not just a physical issue; it is also a psychological one. Excess weight can negatively impact a person’s self-confidence and quality of life. Stress, depression, and emotional eating behaviors can create a vicious cycle that worsens obesity. Thus, psychological support plays a crucial role in obesity treatment.

Managing obesity is not a one-size-fits-all solution and involves a comprehensive approach tailored to the individual:

1. Diet and Nutritional Counseling: Personalized meal plans are essential for lasting results.
2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise not only aids in weight loss but also improves overall health.
3. Behavioral Therapy: Support from specialists can help change eating habits.
4. Medical and Surgical Interventions: For advanced obesity, options like medication or surgical procedures (e.g., gastric sleeve surgery, gastric balloon) can be considered.

Fighting obesity is a personal journey, but you don’t have to do it alone! NewMe Obesity offers scientific approaches and personalized solutions to support you on your path to a healthier life.

Our services include:

• Bariatric Surgery: Effective and long-term solutions such as gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgeries.
• Gastric Balloon: A non-surgical option to reduce stomach capacity and support weight loss.
• Nutritional Counseling: Customized diet plans before and after surgical procedures.
• Psychological Support: Mental and emotional health support throughout the weight loss journey.

Start writing your transformation story and take the first step toward a healthier life with the guidance of our expert team at NewMe Obesity. Your health is our priority!