March 4th: World Obesity Day

Obesity is not merely a condition that results from overeating. Modern medicine defines obesity as a chronic disease that develops through the combination of genetic, hormonal, metabolic, and environmental factors. For this reason, explaining obesity solely as a lack of willpower is both incorrect and harmful.

Obesity, characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body, is associated with serious health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. In addition, its psychological and social effects can be profound. With accurate diagnosis, a scientific approach, and personalized planning, obesity can be managed effectively.

What Is Obesity?

Obesity is the excessive increase in body fat to a level that threatens health. It is generally evaluated using the Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is calculated by dividing body weight (kg) by the square of height (m).

Individuals with a BMI of 30 and above are classified as obese. However, this calculation alone is not sufficient. Body fat distribution, waist circumference measurement, and metabolic indicators should also be evaluated. Some individuals may have a high body fat percentage despite having a normal weight.

Is Obesity Only an Eating Problem?

A common belief in society is that obesity is entirely caused by overeating. However, scientific evidence shows that obesity is often biologically based.

The Biological Dimension of Obesity

Biological mechanisms that may play a role in the development of obesity include:

• Genetic predisposition: Individuals with a family history of obesity are at higher risk. Certain genes affect appetite control and fat storage.

• Hormonal imbalances: Thyroid hormones, insulin, leptin, and ghrelin directly influence metabolism and appetite.

• Insulin resistance: When cells do not respond properly to insulin, fat storage may increase.

• Gut microbiota: Recent studies indicate that gut flora plays an important role in weight regulation.

• Brain-appetite center disorders: When regulatory mechanisms in the hypothalamus are disrupted, hunger and satiety signals may change.

For this reason, viewing obesity solely as “overeating” may lead to overlooking underlying metabolic diseases.

What Are the Symptoms of Obesity?

Obesity is often first noticed through weight gain. However, symptoms are not limited to physical appearance. Metabolic and systemic effects may develop over time.

Most Common Symptoms

• Excessive weight gain: Body weight significantly higher than height

• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness due to metabolic imbalance

• Shortness of breath: Especially difficulty when climbing stairs

• Sleep apnea: Temporary breathing pauses during sleep

• Joint pain: Pressure-related pain in knees and hips

• Psychological effects: Loss of self-confidence, depression, social withdrawal

When these symptoms are recognized early, obesity management becomes more successful.

What Causes Obesity?

Obesity does not result from a single cause. Biological, environmental, and behavioral factors act together.

1. Genetic Factors

Genetic structure may determine metabolic rate and fat storage capacity. Some individuals gain weight more easily despite following the same dietary pattern.

2. Hormonal Disorders

When the thyroid gland functions slowly, metabolism decreases. Elevated cortisol levels, polycystic ovary syndrome, and insulin resistance may also trigger weight gain.

3. Physical Inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle disrupts energy balance. Unused calories are stored as fat.

4. Psychological Factors

Emotional eating behavior may increase during periods of stress and anxiety. However, this does not apply to every individual with obesity.

5. Environmental Factors

Easy access to high-calorie foods, irregular sleep, and shift work may negatively affect metabolism.

How Is Obesity Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with BMI, but comprehensive evaluation is necessary.

BMI Classification

• Below 18.5: Underweight

• 18.5 – 24.9: Normal

• 25 – 29.9: Overweight

• 30 and above: Obese

In addition, waist circumference measurement, blood glucose, cholesterol, and thyroid tests may be performed. A metabolic check-up may be planned when necessary.

How Is Obesity Treatment Planned?

Obesity treatment requires a personalized and multidisciplinary approach. It cannot be solved with a single type of diet.

1. Nutritional Planning

With online dietitian support, a personalized calorie and macronutrient balance is created:

• Low-calorie plans

• Protein-balanced diets

• Programs suitable for insulin resistance

The goal is not to starve the body but to regulate metabolism.

2. Medical Evaluation

Through an online doctor consultation, hormone tests and metabolic parameters are evaluated. Medication therapy may be planned if necessary.

3. Physical Activity Plan

At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week is recommended. Resistance exercises help prevent muscle loss.

4. Surgical Intervention

In advanced obesity cases, surgical options may be considered when other methods are insufficient.

Obesity-Related Diseases

If left untreated, obesity may lead to many chronic diseases:

• Type 2 diabetes

• Hypertension

• Cardiovascular diseases

• Fatty liver disease

• Sleep apnea

• Certain types of cancer

Therefore, early intervention is important.

Can Obesity Be Prevented?

Yes. However, prevention is not simply about “eating less.”

• Regular health check-ups

• Metabolic check-up

• Sleep regulation

• Stress management

• Personalized nutrition planning

Individuals with a family history of obesity are especially advised to remain under regular medical supervision.

Start Managing Obesity with a Scientific Approach

Obesity is not only about weight; it is a metabolic process. Therefore, accurate evaluation and personalized planning are essential. The first step in understanding whether there is a hormonal, genetic, or metabolic cause is a comprehensive health assessment.

Through the Happ Health application, you can schedule an online doctor consultation and create your personalized nutrition plan with an online dietitian.

Healthy weight management is a conscious process. Take the first step now with the right support.