Obesity Obesity refers to the accumulation of body fat exceeding 20% of the ideal body weight. It is a chronic metabolic disease caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The mechanism of its occurrence is due to an energy intake surpassing energy expenditure, leading to excessive fat accumulation and abnormal weight. Obesity has become the largest chronic disease globally.

Obesity refers to an accumulation of body fat exceeding 20% of the ideal body weight. It is a chronic metabolic disorder caused by the interaction of various factors such as genetic and environmental reasons. The mechanism of obesity is due to an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, leading to excessive fat accumulation and abnormal weight. Obesity has become the largest chronic disease globally.

Abnormal energy balance and weight regulation

Factors such as gastric acid secretion, gastrointestinal emptying rate, and heat production can lead to an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, resulting in overweight.

Genetic factors

Some cases of simple obesity are caused by familial genetic factors.

Environmental factors

The increase in the prevalence of obesity is mainly due to lifestyle factors such as dietary habits, exercise habits, and environmental endocrine disruptors. Maternal malnutrition during fetal development can also increase the risk of obesity in adulthood.

Endocrine regulation abnormalities

Abnormalities in various appetite-regulating neurons and various hormones involved in energy regulation can lead to obesity.

Inflammation

Obesity itself is a low-grade inflammatory response.

Intestinal flora

The imbalance of intestinal bacteria in the body can lead to the absorption of lipopolysaccharides into the blood, causing endotoxemia and promoting inflammatory reactions.

Age: Obesity can occur at any age, and as individuals age, physiological changes and unhealthy lifestyles can increase the risk of obesity. Additionally, muscle mass decreases with age, leading to a lower metabolic rate and reduced energy requirements.

Pregnancy: Weight gain during pregnancy is common, and some women find it difficult to lose weight after childbirth.

Smoking cessation: For some individuals, quitting smoking can lead to weight gain, often due to increased food intake to counteract the urge to smoke. However, in the long run, the health benefits of quitting smoking outweigh the risk of weight gain.

Lack of sleep: Sleep deprivation can increase appetite.

Psychological factors: Stress and negative emotions may compel individuals to consume more high-calorie foods.

Mild simple obesity

Patients with mild simple obesity may be asymptomatic and only exhibit overweight.

Moderate to severe simple obesity

In addition to overweight, symptoms may include shortness of breath, joint pain, muscle soreness, reduced physical activity, and anxiety.

Severe simple obesity and secondary obesity

Severe simple obesity and secondary obesity often occur simultaneously with abnormalities in lipid metabolism, fatty liver, hypertension, coronary heart disease, impaired glucose tolerance, or diabetes.

There is currently no evidence-based medicine to support the traditional Chinese medicine treatment of obesity. However, some traditional Chinese medicine treatment methods, such as Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, and massage, have certain weight loss effects. It is recommended to seek treatment under the guidance of a qualified medical professional.

Diet

Limit energy intake to be lower than energy expenditure.

Ensure a balanced intake of dietary nutrients, consume more vegetables and fruits, avoid excessive consumption of carbohydrates and high-fat foods, and avoid fried foods.

Develop a scientific and healthy eating habit, eating regularly and in moderation.

Exercise

Combining an appropriate exercise plan with a balanced diet and adhering to it long-term can effectively prevent obesity.

Choose suitable exercise methods and intensity according to individual circumstances under the guidance of professionals, and progress gradually.

Psychological Well-being

During weight loss, pay attention to one's mental state and seek professional help for psychological counseling if necessary.

Lifestyle

Develop good daily routines and avoid staying up late.

Using fasting as a means of weight loss may lead to temporary weight reduction, but after stopping fasting, weight is likely to rebound rapidly. Therefore, developing healthy eating habits and incorporating exercise in the long term is a better way to control weight.

Use weight loss drugs cautiously, as many products may have non-standard ingredients or unpredictable side effects. It is best to consult a professional medical opinion before use.

Preventing obesity should start from childhood.

Conduct effective health education and encourage healthy lifestyles, especially among adolescents.

For individuals with a tendency towards obesity, it is necessary to seek more knowledge and timely assistance from professionals.