Obesity: Do Not Eat Yourself To death

Overweight and obesity are increasing problems in the developed and developing world alike. Overweight and obesity could be defined as an abnormal accumulation of body fat. This occurs due to the discrepancy between ENERGY CONSUMPTION and EXPENDITURE. An individual's weight tends to stabilise when the increased metabolic demands of the body balances the energy intake. It is amazing that once weight is gained, it becomes very unusual to lose it spontaneously.

Causes:

1. Specific Factors: In few cases of obesity, the cause can be isolated and treated e.g

a) Endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, hypothalamic tumours or injury, insulinoma etc.

b) Drugs: Drug treatments with tricyclic antidepressants, sulphonylurea,  some oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, sodium valporate, etc.

2. Behavioural Factor:  The leading factor to obesity is decrease in activity levels. The following lifestyle predisposes an individual to obesity or overweight.

a) Intake of high-fat diet: Most consumed fats induce very little energy expenditure as they are mostly stored.

b) Eating of junks: Is a common lifestyle nowadays. Snacking and the loss of  formalised meal pattern reduces the conscious recognition of foods eaten.

c) Consumption of energy-dense foods and drinks

d) Alcohol consumption: It stimulate appetite and promotes weight gain by providing substantial energy.

3. Genetic Factors: The following genes have been implicated:

a) Mutation of melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R)

b) Prader-Willi syndrome( childhood obesity with abnormal appearance and CNS function)

c) Mutation in Leptin gene ( Leptin is thought to be a blood borne signal from the adipose tissue that informs the brain about the size of fat mass, as well as acting as signal to regulate appetite or energy.