The truth behind the bulge: The role of obesogens in obesity

February 12, 2023

The obesity epidemic has reached alarming proportions. It is a major risk factor for a number of non-communicable diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer. These diseases are leading causes of death and disability globally. However, obesity is a growing problem globally and according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), in 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults, 18 years and older, were overweight. Of these over 650 million were obese. The prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled since 1975. Though as per the World Population Review, India has only 3.9% obesity, according to UNICEF’s World Obesity Atlas for 2022, India is predicted to have more than 27 million obese children, representing one in 10 children globally, by 2030.

While much has been done to understand the causes and interventions for obesity, it is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. Diet and exercise alone may not be enough to solve the obesity pandemic. New findings in the field of obesity research have shed light on a potential contributor that has been largely ignored: obesogens. A recent article in Chemistry World by Anthony King highlights these chemicals in detail.

What are obesogens?

In 2006, Bruce Blumberg of University of California, Irvine coined the term obesogen. Obesogens are everyday chemicals that have been found to promote fat formation and alter the regulation of energy balance, leading to obesity. These substances interfere with the hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism, leading to increased body fat. They bind to fat receptors, hormone receptors, and can alter how the body processes a meal. Obesogens have also been linked to metabolic syndrome, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Here is a list of some of the most commonly recognised obesogenic chemicals, along with their probable origin and mode of action:

Source and mode of action of common obesogenic chemicals

How to counter obesogens and obesity?

To counter the effects of obesogens and obesity, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. This includes diet, exercise, lifestyle changes, and detoxification, as well as consulting with a healthcare professional. Reducing exposure to obesogens can be achieved by reducing the use of plastic containers and packaging and incorporating fresh ingredients into meals.

How to reduce exposure to obesogens?

To reduce exposure to obesogens, it is important to take a multi-pronged approach. Here are some steps that consumers can take to reduce their exposure to obesogens:

  1. Reduce plastic use: One of the biggest sources of obesogens is plastic containers and packaging. To reduce exposure, consumers should avoid using plastic containers for food and drinks and opt for glass, ceramic, or stainless steel containers instead.

  2. Choose fresh ingredients: Preparing meals from fresh ingredients instead of processed foods can help reduce obesogen exposure. This not only helps to reduce exposure to obesogens, but it is also a healthier alternative in general.

  3. Check product labels: Consumers can look for products that are BPA-free and free from other harmful chemicals that have been linked to obesity.

  4. Opt for natural products: Choosing products made from natural ingredients and avoiding those that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors can help reduce obesogen exposure.

  5. Support environmentally friendly alternatives: Support companies that are actively working to reduce obesogen exposure by using environmentally friendly alternatives and promoting sustainability.

It is important to note that the effects of obesogens can be complex and much more research is needed to fully understand the best ways to counteract their effects. However, by taking these steps, consumers can reduce their exposure to obesogens and help reduce their risk of obesity.

How spices can help?

Polyphenols are a class of compounds found in a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, and spices. Spices, specifically those rich in polyphenols, have been shown to have anti-obesogenic effects and may play a role in mitigating the effects of obesogens and reducing the risk of obesity. Some of the spices that are particularly rich in polyphenols and have been studied for their potential role in mitigating the effects of obesogens and reducing obesity include:

  1. Ginger: Ginger has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of obesity.

  2. Cinnamon: Cinnamon has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of obesity.

  3. Turmeric: Turmeric contains the polyphenol curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and may help reduce the risk of obesity.

  4. Cloves: Cloves contain the polyphenols eugenol and caryophyllene, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and may help reduce the risk of obesity.

  5. Black pepper: Black pepper contains the polyphenol piperine, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of obesity.

  6. Kokum or Garcinia cambogia: It is a tropical fruit rich in hydroxy citric acid that is sometimes used as a natural weight loss supplement due to its potential to suppress appetite and inhibit fat production.

It is important to note that these findings are based on laboratory and animal studies, and more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these spices in humans. Clinical studies investigating the use of spices in combating obesity suggest that incorporating spices high in polyphenols into the diet may help reduce the risk of obesity and improve overall health. However, further research is necessary to fully understand the potential benefits of these spices in humans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the obesity epidemic is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach, including reducing exposure to obesogens and incorporating healthy lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise, and incorporating fresh ingredients into meals. The potential health benefits of spices rich in polyphenols, including anti-obesogenic effects, should not be ignored and warrant further investigation.

Additional Reading