Weight Management

How many lives are lost annually due to obesity-related diseases?

300,000 lives a year.

What are the main diseases associated with obesity?

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, and cancer.

Where does obesity rank as a cause of premature death?

It is the second leading cause of premature death.

How does having a BMI greater than 35 affect the risk of premature death?

It doubles the risk of premature death.

What weight gain during early adulthood is associated with increased risk?

Gaining 20 pounds or more.

How can the risks of obesity be mitigated?

Risks can be overridden by fitness.

When does the number of fat cells increase most significantly?

Late childhood and early puberty.

What happens to the size of fat cells with weight loss?

The size of fat cells dwindles.

Does the number of fat cells decrease with weight loss?

No, the number of fat cells does not decrease.

Where is fat first stored in the body?

Fat first fills adipose tissue.

Where does fat begin to be deposited after adipose tissue is filled?

Fat is deposited in organs, including the heart and liver.

Fat cell development

1. during growth, fat cells increase in number

2. when energy intake exceeds expenditure, fat cells increase in size

3. when fat cells have enlarged and energy intake continues to exceed energy expenditure, fat cells may increase in number again

4. with fat loss, the size of the fat cells shrinks but not the number

What is the role of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) in fat cell metabolism?

LPL is an enzyme that promotes fat storage.

Where is lipoprotein lipase (LPL) located?

On fat cell membranes.

How is LPL activity different in obese individuals?

Obese people have increased LPL activity.

What happens to LPL activity after weight loss?

LPL activity increases after weight loss.

How is LPL activity regulated in women compared to men?

In women, LPL is abundant in fat cells of the breasts, hips, and thighs, while in men, it is abundant in the abdomen.

How does dietary fat oxidation correlate with body fatness?

Dietary fat oxidation correlates negatively with body fatness; obese individuals have decreased oxidation activity.

What does Set Point Theory suggest about body weight?

The body maintains homeostasis by adjusting metabolism to restore original weight after loss or gain.

How does genetics contribute to obesity?

Genetics can influence a person's predisposition to obesity, as seen in biological versus adoptive children.

What is epigenetics in the context of obesity?

Epigenetics refers to how environmental factors like diet and activity influence gene expression related to obesity.

How does the environment contribute to obesity?

The environment can influence food intake and activity patterns, leading to overeating and reduced physical activity.

What role do genetics play in obesity?

Genetics determine a person’s predisposition to obesity.

How do environmental factors affect obesity?

Environmental factors, such as diet and physical activity, influence gene expression related to obesity.

What is leptin, and what is its function?

Leptin is a protein that acts as a hormone, helping to regulate energy balance and suppress appetite.

What is ghrelin, and what is its function?

Ghrelin is a protein that acts as a hormone, stimulating appetite and promoting fat storage.

What is the name of the gene associated with obesity?

The gene is called ob.

What protein does the ob gene code for?

The ob gene codes for the protein leptin.

Where does leptin act as a hormone in the body?

Leptin acts as a hormone in the hypothalamus.

What are the functions of leptin?

Leptin promotes negative energy balance, suppresses appetite, and increases energy expenditure.

What can cause a rare genetic deficiency related to leptin?

A rare genetic deficiency can be caused by a deficiency of leptin or a mutation in its receptor.

What effect do leptin injections have in animals and humans?

Leptin injections can reduce body weight in both animals and humans.

Leptin action in body- gain of body fat

• Gain of body fat

• Blood leptin increases

• hypothalamus responds, diminishing appetite

• food intake increases and energy expenditure increases

Leptin action in body- loss of body fat

• loss of body fat

• blood leptin decreases

• hypothalamus responds, stimulating appetite

• food intake increases and energy expenditure decreases

What is ghrelin?

Ghrelin is a protein that acts as a hormone.

Where is ghrelin produced in the body?

Ghrelin is produced by stomach cells.

What effect does ghrelin have on appetite?

Ghrelin enhances appetite and triggers the desire to eat.

How does ghrelin affect energy expenditure?

Ghrelin decreases energy expenditure.

• so that it conserve it

What role does ghrelin play in body weight?

Ghrelin promotes weight gain by stimulating hunger.

What stimulates the secretion of ghrelin?

Ghrelin is secreted by the stomach cells.

What is the primary role of ghrelin in energy balance?

Ghrelin increases appetite and promotes a positive energy balance.

How does psychological mindset affect ghrelin's response?

A mindset of indulgence can promote feelings of satiety after a meal.

What effect does ghrelin have on sleep?

Ghrelin promotes sleep.

How does lack of sleep affect ghrelin and leptin levels?

Lack of sleep increases ghrelin levels and decreases leptin levels.

What lifestyle factors can influence obesity?

Factors include activity, smoking, and drug use.

How does diet impact obesity?

Diet is influenced by culture, food preferences, and attitudes toward food.

What social conditions affect obesity?

Social conditions include education, access to medical care, income, and family structure.

How does education influence obesity?

Education can affect health literacy and the ability to make informed dietary and lifestyle choices.

What role does income play in obesity?

Income affects access to healthy food options and healthcare, influencing obesity rates.

What contributes to overeating in the environment?

Factors include high-calorie, high-fat foods that are readily available, inexpensive, well-advertised, and taste good.

What is the recommended amount of physical activity for health?

The recommendation is 60 minutes of moderately intense physical activities daily.

How much physical activity is recommended for weight loss?

More than 60 minutes of physical activity daily is recommended to lose weight.

Why do readily available foods contribute to obesity?

They are often advertised, inexpensive, and appealing in taste, leading to increased consumption.

What type of physical activities are recommended for maintaining health?

Moderately intense physical activities such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming are recommended.

What health risks are associated with being overweight or obese?

Risks include hypertension, fatty liver disease, abnormal blood lipids, diabetes or prediabetes, and sleep apnea.

What are some social consequences of obesity?

Social consequences include issues related to jobs, school, and stereotypes.

How does society's obsession with body weight affect individuals?

It can lead to discrimination, which may exacerbate overeating behaviors.

What psychological problems are linked to obesity?

Psychological issues can include depression, shame, rejection, and embarrassment.

What factors can worsen the effects of discrimination on overweight individuals?

Discrimination can worsen psychological problems and lead to increased overeating.

How much is spent annually in the U.S. on weight loss products?

Approximately $70 billion is spent per year on weight loss products.

What societal factors complicate the treatment of obesity?

Society often sets unreasonable goals for weight loss.

What are common problems associated with weight loss efforts?

Problems include fads, yo-yo dieting, and various psychological aspects.

What is yo-yo dieting?

Yo-yo dieting refers to the cycle of losing weight and then regaining it, often leading to more weight gain over time.

How do psychological aspects impact obesity treatment?

Psychological factors can affect motivation, body image, and the ability to maintain weight loss.

What are obesity drugs used for?

They are used for aggressive treatment of obesity.

What are some potential side effects of obesity drugs?

They can have multiple side effects, including serious health risks.

How does St. John’s Wort affect appetite?

St. John’s Wort suppresses appetite by enhancing serotonin levels.

With which substance is St. John’s Wort often used in combination?

It is commonly used in combination with ephedrine.

What serious health risks have been associated with the use of these drugs?

They have been linked to seizures, heart attacks, and even death.

Why are diet books and weight-loss programs often considered ineffective?

Many are based on fad diets or unsupported claims.

What issues are associated with weight-loss products, including herbal and dietary supplements?

They do not need FDA approval, are not tested for safety or efficacy, and often contain undeclared ingredients.

What are examples of ineffective treatments or gimmicks for weight loss?

Examples include cellulite creams, wraps, massage, saunas, and special baths.

What is a common characteristic of fad diets?

They often promise quick results without scientific backing or sustainable practices.

Why can herbal and dietary supplements be risky?

They may contain undeclared ingredients that can be harmful, as they lack regulatory oversight.

Who are candidates for obesity surgery?

Candidates typically have a BMI > 40 or BMI > 35 with weight-related health problems.

How many obesity surgeries are performed each year in the U.S.?

Approximately 200,000 surgeries are performed annually.

What is the primary function of obesity surgery?

It reduces the food capacity of the stomach, effectively limiting food intake.

What hormone's production is reduced by obesity surgery?

The surgery helps to reduce the production of ghrelin, which is associated with appetite regulation.

What are some health-related benefits of obesity surgery?

Benefits include improvements in blood pressure, blood lipid profile, and insulin sensitivity.

What are some long-term concerns following obesity surgery?

There may be risks of vitamin/mineral deficiencies and the development of disordered eating behaviors.

What is the impact of liposuction on body weight?

Liposuction has little impact on overall body weight; it is primarily a cosmetic procedure.

gastric bypass

small pouch and creates an outlet to the SI bypassing most of the stomach, entire duodenum, and some of jejunum.  No foreign objects in abdomen or need for adjustments.  

gastric banding

gastric band reduces the opening from the esophagus to the stomach.  

• Less invasive, more flexible, safer than bypass. No malabsorption.  

What is a realistic approach to energy intake for weight loss?

Provide less energy than is needed to maintain current weight.

What should be avoided to ensure effective weight loss?

Restrictive eating and rapid weight loss.

What is a safe rate of weight loss per week?

Aim for ½ to 2 pounds weekly or 10% of body weight in 6 months.

What daily calorie deficit is recommended for weight loss?

A deficit of 500 to 1000 kcalories per day.

What is the goal of a weight loss plan regarding nutrition?

Achieve nutritional adequacy without excess.

How is breakfast frequency related to obesity?

Higher breakfast frequency is inversely related to obesity; those who eat breakfast regularly are less likely to be obese.

What are key nutritional strategies for weight loss?

Adequacy and variety in diet, slow down while eating, and focus on lower energy density foods.

How can portion sizes aid in weight loss?

Eating smaller portions can help control calorie intake.

What types of carbohydrates are beneficial for weight loss?

Focus on complex carbohydrates and fiber.

What types of fats should be included in a weight loss diet?

Include sensible fats while limiting empty calories from fat, sugar, and alcohol.

What is the importance of hydration in weight loss?

Ensure adequate water intake to support overall health and metabolism.

How does physical activity contribute to weight loss?

Increases energy expenditure, boosts basal metabolism, and helps maintain lean body mass.

What psychological benefits can physical activity provide?

Improves self-esteem and offers various psychological benefits.

Should weight loss efforts include enjoyable activities?

Yes, engage in enjoyable activities to maintain motivation and consistency.

Is spot reducing an effective weight loss strategy?

Spot reducing is generally not effective; focus on overall body fat reduction.

What is energy density?

Energy density is the number of kcalories per gram (kcal/g) of food.

How does decreasing energy density in foods affect energy intake?

Decreasing energy density allows for satisfying portions while still reducing overall energy intake.