Journal Description
Obesities
Obesities
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of obesity published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 20.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Obesities is a companion journal of IJMS.
Latest Articles
Going High to Keep Body Mass Low: How Post-Exercise Exposure to a Simulated High Altitude Influences Energy Balance—A Proof-of-Concept Pilot Study
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 169-182; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020016 - 20 Jun 2024
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A healthy body mass contributes to a positive quality of life, and for overweight/obese individuals, weight loss of even modest proportions improves health-related outcomes. A novel approach to promoting body mass regulation is to pair exercise with high altitude, thereby upregulating metabolic processes
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A healthy body mass contributes to a positive quality of life, and for overweight/obese individuals, weight loss of even modest proportions improves health-related outcomes. A novel approach to promoting body mass regulation is to pair exercise with high altitude, thereby upregulating metabolic processes and increasing caloric expenditure. As an added measure of body mass regulation, data suggest that high altitude stimulates the production of the appetite-suppressing hormone leptin. Issues arise, however, given that high altitude compromises aerobic exercise capacity. Whereas exercising at high altitude may compromise exercise intensity and duration, recovering at high altitude retains the integrity of exercise while still potentially conferring the benefits of the low oxygen environment on energy expenditure and energy intake. The purpose of this study was to perform a proof-of-concept pilot test on whether post-exercise exposure to a simulated high altitude influenced acute energy balance. Twelve healthy men and women ran for 30 min at a moderate intensity on two separate occasions. Following exercise, participants recovered for 30 min while breathing either sea level air or low oxygen air simulating high altitude (equivalent to 4500 m elevation). Blood samples and hunger ratings were collected pre-exercise and post-recovery. Heart rate was recorded throughout exercise and recovery and used to calculate caloric expenditure. Post-exercise energy expenditure was significantly higher (p = 0.03) following high altitude recovery (139 ± 15 kcal) compared to sea-level recovery (98 ± 11 kcal). Participants reported a lower desire to eat when they recovered in the high altitude environment (p = 0.01), though post-recovery leptin concentrations were similar between the two conditions. Post-exercise exposure to a simulated high altitude environment represents a promising method for increasing daily caloric expenditure and lowering appetite. Given the pilot nature of this study, future research is needed to address the question of high altitude recovery on a larger sample over a longer time period and with robust measures of caloric expenditure.
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Open AccessCommunication
Quality of Life in Patients with Obesity: The Role of Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Medicine
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Youssef Kouidrat, Rufin Louhou, Claire Mondot, Imed Daami, Ali Amad and Momar Diouf
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 160-168; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020015 - 18 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Little is known about the role of rehabilitation medicine in obesity. Objective: to examine the benefits of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program on the quality of life in patients with severe obesity. Methodology: We included 124 patients with obesity (mean age: 57 years;
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Background: Little is known about the role of rehabilitation medicine in obesity. Objective: to examine the benefits of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program on the quality of life in patients with severe obesity. Methodology: We included 124 patients with obesity (mean age: 57 years; BMI ≥30), in an 8-week in-hospital multidisciplinary supervised program combining physiotherapy, nutrition and psychological support. Clinical, bio-psychological and functional parameters, as well as an obesity-specific quality-of-life score, were acquired at 0 and 8 weeks. Results: The quality-of-life score improved significantly at 8 weeks, from 60.8 to 68.8 (p < 0.0001), and was positively correlated with cardio-respiratory function (r = 0.47; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our results highlight the important role of multidisciplinary rehabilitation medicine and its integrated approach to improve the quality of life of people with obesity.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
A Comparison of the Efficacy of Online HAPIFED versus Online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Binge Eating Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
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Felipe Q. da Luz, Mohammed Mohsin, Paula C. Teixeira, Edilaine dos Santos, Tamiris Gaeta, Silvia Ferrari, Kayo Martin, Andréia Dias, Tatiana A. Jana, Leticia S. Marinho, Isabella Lobo, Luisa Pascoareli, Táki Cordás and Phillipa Hay
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 145-159; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020014 - 13 Jun 2024
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The efficacy of two different online treatment programs for people with binge eating disorder (BED) was compared. One hundred and nineteen adults with BED were randomized to treatments based on the Healthy Approach to Weight Management and Food in Eating Disorders (HAPIFED) or
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The efficacy of two different online treatment programs for people with binge eating disorder (BED) was compared. One hundred and nineteen adults with BED were randomized to treatments based on the Healthy Approach to Weight Management and Food in Eating Disorders (HAPIFED) or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The treatments were delivered via videoconferencing in 10 groups with approximately 12 participants in each group. Each group included 13 treatment sessions and two follow-up sessions. Participants’ self-reported eating disorder behaviours/psychopathology, general mental health, and weight were assessed at pre-treatment, the end of treatment, a 3-month follow-up, and a 6-month follow-up. The participants in both treatments similarly reduced objective and subjective binge eating episodes from pre-treatment to the end of treatment. There were no significant differences in weight loss for the participants in either treatment. The participants in both treatments had reduced levels of loss of control over eating, eating disorder psychopathology, depression, psychological stress, and difficulties in emotion regulation from pre-treatment to the end of treatment. Treatments based on the HAPIFED or CBT delivered via videoconferencing can reduce binge eating and improve mental health in people with BED.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
A Systematic Review of Moderators of the Association between Dietary Restraint and Binge Eating
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Tyler B. Mason, Anna Dolgon-Krutolow and Kathryn E. Smith
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 132-144; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020013 - 7 Jun 2024
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Obesity interventions typically involve some form of dietary restraint (i.e., intentional limiting of food intake), yet the restraint model of binge eating proposes that engaging in dietary restraint is a causal factor for binge eating symptoms. Evidence for this model has been mixed
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Obesity interventions typically involve some form of dietary restraint (i.e., intentional limiting of food intake), yet the restraint model of binge eating proposes that engaging in dietary restraint is a causal factor for binge eating symptoms. Evidence for this model has been mixed and differs by measures, study design, and sample. Further, there also may be moderators of the association between dietary restraint and binge eating. The purpose of this systematic review was to compile the current evidence on moderators of the association between dietary restraint and binge eating. A literature search was conducted across electronic databases, resulting in the inclusion of 16 papers (with 15 different samples). The reviewed studies were primarily heterosexual White college student females and were primarily cross-sectional studies with self-report measures. There were no consistent moderators across the studies. However, there was some evidence for interactions between affective constructs and dietary restraint in relation to binge eating, as well as three-way interactions between affect, cognitive constructs, and dietary restraint. Although there were few studies, there was little current evidence for social, biological, and demographic factors as moderators. Overall, our systematic review shows a need for further research to clarify and validate the moderators, and to understand the complex interactions as well as the potential causal relationships between restraint and binge eating behaviors.
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Open AccessArticle
Obesity Increases Maternal Complications in Pregnant Women of Sinop: A Retrospective Cohort Study
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Lilian G. V. Pinheiro, Nathalia M. Sanches, Catharine L. R. Soares, Bruna L. O. Lima, Eduarda B. Ramos, Mariany S. Ferreira, Matheus O. Loiola, Rafaella R. Silva, João Sérgio N. Prates, Viviani C. Silva, Diogo A. Queiroz and Eveline A. I. F. Queiroz
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 118-131; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020012 - 29 May 2024
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Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease that can promote serious comorbidities as maternal complications. Thus, the objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence of overweight and obesity, and the incidence of maternal complications in pregnant women of Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil.
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Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease that can promote serious comorbidities as maternal complications. Thus, the objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence of overweight and obesity, and the incidence of maternal complications in pregnant women of Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil. It was a retrospective cohort study with clinical and epidemiological data collected from the medical records of pregnant women diagnosed in 2020. Pregnant women were subdivided into three groups: eutrophic, overweight, and obese. Data from 700 pregnant women were evaluated, 251 in the eutrophic group, in the 220 overweight group and 229 in the obese group. The percentage of pregnant women with diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension was significantly higher in the overweight and obesity groups when compared with the eutrophic group. The incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus was significantly higher in the overweight and obese groups when compared with the eutrophic group (p < 0.0001). The incidence of gestational arterial hypertension was also significantly higher in the overweight (6.8%) and obese (12.7%) groups when compared with the eutrophic group (1.2%) (p < 0.0001). The incidence of pre-eclampsia was also higher and statistically different in the overweight and obese groups. In conclusion, it was observed that most of the pregnant women presented with overweight/obesity and that this excess body weight contributed significantly to the incidence of several maternal complications.
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation in Women with Metabolic Syndrome and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Evaluated by Magnetic Resonance Imaging—Coenzyme Q10 in Metabolic Syndrome and NAFLD
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Daniela Casagrande, Fernando Figueiredo Waib, Jorge Elias Júnior and Alceu Afonso Jordão Júnior
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 106-117; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020011 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Introduction: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a component present in the transport chain of mitochondrial electrons with antioxidant property. Currently, there are limited studies which indicate the effects of its supplementation on Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). (2) Objective:
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(1) Introduction: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a component present in the transport chain of mitochondrial electrons with antioxidant property. Currently, there are limited studies which indicate the effects of its supplementation on Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). (2) Objective: This work was conducted to determine the effects of CoQ10 supplementation in women with MetS and NAFLD. (3) Methodology: This double-blind randomized clinical-controlled trial was performed among 22 women with MetS and NAFLD. Patients were randomized into two groups: group A (n = 11), which received 200 mg/day of CoQ10; and group B (n = 11), which received a placebo medication for 12 weeks. The hepatic steatosis present in NAFLD, the volume of abdominal fat, and visceral fat volume were evaluated by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Anthropometric, blood pressure, and marker serums that compound the MetS were also analyzed. (4) Results: A decrease in visceral fat volume (p = 0.02), abdominal circumference (p = 0.03/CI = 0.19–3.80), and increase in HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.01/CI = −9.80: −1.44) was observed in the CoQ10-supplemented group. We did not find significant changes in any of the other variables evaluated. (5) Conclusions: Supplementation with CoQ10 for 12 weeks, even if discreetly, brought some benefits for the supplemented group whereas no changes were observed in the control group.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue How to Prevent Obesity and Inflammatory Disease 2024)
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Open AccessArticle
High-Fat-High-Fructose Diet Elicits Brown Adipocyte Dysfunction through miRNA-103 Induced miRNA Biogenesis Pathway
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Nitya Shree, Sunitha Meruvu, Min Hi Park and Mahua Choudhury
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 93-105; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020010 - 10 May 2024
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Background: Obesity is a critical public health concern with its prevalence growing at an alarming rate worldwide. The Western diet that typically includes high-fat or high-fructose components is one of the leading contributing factors of obesity. Recent findings demonstrate the essential role of
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Background: Obesity is a critical public health concern with its prevalence growing at an alarming rate worldwide. The Western diet that typically includes high-fat or high-fructose components is one of the leading contributing factors of obesity. Recent findings demonstrate the essential role of BAT in regulating whole-body metabolism. However, the explicit mechanism through which BAT maintains homeostasis is still unknown. Methods: Six-week-old C57BL/6 male mice were fed either a low-fat diet (LFD) or a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFHFD) for 4, 12, and 20 weeks. Results: We observed a significant increase in BAT weight under HFHFD along with BAT whitening in a time-dependent manner. This was also accompanied by a significant decrease in UCP1 and PGC1α protein, as well as a significant increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio as early as 12 weeks, indicating increased apoptosis under HFHFD. Interestingly, miRNA-103 expression that holds a seed sequence within the miRNA biogenesis machinery, Dicer, was significantly upregulated after 12 and 20 weeks of HFHFD. Dicer and another biogenesis regulator, TRBP2, exhibited significant upregulation at 4 weeks of HFHFD. Conversely, those gene expressions were significantly downregulated at 12 and 20 weeks of HFHFD, followed by a significant decrease in the protein level at 12 weeks. To confirm the mechanistic connection, miRNA-103 knockdown in vitro significantly upregulated Dicer and the TRBP2 gene. However, only Dicer exhibited a significant increase at the translational level. Conclusion: Overall, we conclude that HFHFD may elicit BAT dysfunction by inhibiting Dicer via miRNA-103.
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Open AccessBrief Report
Serum Cobalt Concentration and DNA Methylation Signatures in Women with Obesity
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Natália Yumi Noronha, Luísa Maria Diani, Guilherme da Silva Rodrigues, Isabela Harumi Yonehara Noma, Vanessa Aparecida Batista Pereira, Marcela Augusta de Souza Pinhel, Lígia Moriguchi Watanabe, Déborah Araújo Morais, Fernando Barbosa, Jr. and Carla Barbosa Nonino
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 85-92; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020009 - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Obesity, a multifactorial disorder, has been associated with alterations in metal metabolismand epigenetic modifications. This pilot case–control study aimed to investigate serum cobalt concentrations and associated DNA methylation patterns in women with obesity. Serum cobalt levels were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass
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Obesity, a multifactorial disorder, has been associated with alterations in metal metabolismand epigenetic modifications. This pilot case–control study aimed to investigate serum cobalt concentrations and associated DNA methylation patterns in women with obesity. Serum cobalt levels were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), revealing significantly higher cobalt concentrations in participants with normal weight than in participants with obesity. Additionally, DNA methylation analysis identified differentially methylated positions (DMPs) associated with cobalt exposure, and DMPs between groups highlighted hypomethylation in the top DMPs in individuals with obesity. Functional enrichment analysis of these DMPs unveiled potential pathways implicated in apoptosis, cancer, and metabolic signaling, warranting further investigation into the mechanistic links. This study provides preliminary insights into the interplay between cobalt exposure, DNA methylation, and potential implications for obesity management.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue How to Prevent Obesity and Inflammatory Disease 2024)
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Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Mitigating Weight Stigma: A Randomized Controlled Trial Addressing Obesity Prejudice through Education among Healthcare Undergraduates
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Karen Marina López-Lara, Ana Carolina Cruz-Millán, Laura Fernanda Barrera-Hernandez, Edith Valbuena-Gregorio, Moisés Omar Ayala-Burboa, Marco Antonio Hernández-Lepe and Francisco Javier Olivas-Aguirre
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 73-84; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020008 - 17 Apr 2024
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Beyond the challenges presented by obesity itself, a considerable portion of the population encounters prejudice and discriminatory behavior based on their weight and size. This phenomenon, termed weight stigma and weight bias, appears to be perpetuated not only by the broader society but
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Beyond the challenges presented by obesity itself, a considerable portion of the population encounters prejudice and discriminatory behavior based on their weight and size. This phenomenon, termed weight stigma and weight bias, appears to be perpetuated not only by the broader society but also by healthcare providers, leading to distrust and alienation among individuals with obesity, thereby exacerbating a global issue. Recognizing weight stigma as a violation of human rights and its association with declining health outcomes, there is a pressing need to explore evidence-based strategies for mitigating it within healthcare. This is especially crucial at the early stages of professional development. Methodology: A randomized controlled trial employing a 60 min lecture experimental design was conducted to evaluate changes in conceptions, beliefs, and prejudices toward obesity among healthcare undergraduates (n = 242). Results: Semantic network analysis revealed participants’ conceptualization of obesity as a condition closely linked to diet and sedentary habits. Moreover, three out of four healthcare students considered obesity a disease for which the individual is responsible. While individuals with obesity were described as weak, lazy, and having a high affinity for food, these prejudices decreased following the educational intervention. Conclusion: Following an educational intervention based on the multifactorial nature of obesity and weight stigma, it was possible to modify prejudices and conceptions about obesity among future healthcare professionals.
Full article
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Open AccessBrief Report
Exploring the Relationship between Food Addiction, Overweight, Obesity, and Telomere Length
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Trina Aguirre and Kosuke Niitsu
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 66-72; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020007 - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Individuals with food addiction (FA) compose a distinct subset of people with obesity who are less responsive to weight loss interventions. An emerging field of study explores the role of telomere length in disease processes. Some evidence suggests that obesity is associated
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Background: Individuals with food addiction (FA) compose a distinct subset of people with obesity who are less responsive to weight loss interventions. An emerging field of study explores the role of telomere length in disease processes. Some evidence suggests that obesity is associated with telomere shortening; however, we are not aware of studies examining telomere length in obesity subtypes. Therefore, we explored whether FA and levels of obesity were associated with telomere shortening. Methods: We enrolled 120 adults (aged 19–70) with overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25); half were positive for severe food addiction (FA+), and half were negative for food addiction (FA−) (Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0). Participants completed a demographic form and provided a saliva sample (Oragene saliva DNA collection kit). Telomere length was analyzed using the monoplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVAs (α = 0.05). Results: Participants with overweight (mean = 1.40 t/s, SD = 0.40) had longer telomeres (p = 0.013) than those with morbid obesity (mean = 1.15 t/s, SD = 1.29). Telomere length did not differ (p = 0.306) between persons who were FA− (mean = 1.26 t/s, SD = 0.26) and those who were FA+ (mean = 1.32 t/s, SD = 0.34). The youngest participants (mean = 1.39 t/s, SD = 0.33) had longer telomeres (p = 0.006) than the oldest participants (mean = 1.18 t/s, SD = 0.19). Conclusion: Those who were morbidly obese had the shortest telomere lengths. Interestingly, however, there were not significant telomere length differences in the food addicted vs. nonfood-addicted subtypes.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Anthropometric and Body Composition Changes over Five Years after Bariatric Surgery in Patients with Obesity, Diagnosed or Not Diagnosed with Binge Eating Disorder (BED) in the Preoperative Period
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Heitor Bernardes Pereira Delfino, Marcela Augusta de Souza Pinhel, Flávia Campos Ferreira, Carolina Ferreira Nicoletti, Sofia Teixeira Prates de Oliveira, Lidia Barbieri Belarmino Baumgartner, Caroline Rossi Welendorf, Thaís Alves de Azevedo Chaves Pastore, Carolina Hunger Malek-Zadeh, Ligia Moriguchi Watanabe, Natália Yumi Noronha, Wilson Salgado Junior and Carla Barbosa Nonino
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 55-65; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020006 - 5 Apr 2024
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Obesity is a complex disease with a multifactorial etiology and could be associated with psychiatric disorders, such as Binge Eating Disorder (BED), characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating in the absence of compensatory behaviors. The present study aimed to analyze anthropometric and
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Obesity is a complex disease with a multifactorial etiology and could be associated with psychiatric disorders, such as Binge Eating Disorder (BED), characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating in the absence of compensatory behaviors. The present study aimed to analyze anthropometric and body composition changes over five years after bariatric surgery in patients diagnosed or not diagnosed with BED, depression, and anxiety in the preoperative period. One hundred and eighteen patients undergoing bariatric surgery were evaluated and divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of BED. The patients were submitted to anthropometric and body composition evaluation. We also analyzed BED diagnosis, depression, and anxiety according to the DSM-5 and validated questionnaires. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov, t-test, Fisher’s, and chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis. Over five years after bariatric surgery, only the BED group exhibited an increased weight and BMI (p < 0.05). In the preoperative period, patients with BED had severe depression (13,11%, p = 0.0079) and a higher frequency of moderate (22.95%, p < 0.01) or severe (14.75%, p < 0.01) anxiety. In conclusion, patients with BED had more intense symptoms of depression and anxiety in the preoperative period, and this disorder may persist in the postoperative period of bariatric surgery, contributing to weight gain and increased BMI.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Ability of Hypocaloric Diets to Change Nutrient–Phyla Associations after 8 Weeks of Intervention
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Natália Yumi Noronha, Luzânia dos Santos Martins, Lígia Moriguchi Watanabe, Marcela Augusta de Souza Pinhel, Guilherme da Silva Rodrigues, Isabelle Mello Schneider, Carolina Ferreira Nicoletti, Heitor Bernardes Pereira Delfino, Daniela Carlos and Carla Barbosa Nonino
Obesities 2024, 4(2), 45-54; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4020005 - 26 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Previous studies have suggested that changes in the composition of intestinal microbiota may be influenced by dietary quality. Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of a hypocaloric diet on the relationship between microbiota and clinical/dietary variables. Methods: This was a
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Background: Previous studies have suggested that changes in the composition of intestinal microbiota may be influenced by dietary quality. Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of a hypocaloric diet on the relationship between microbiota and clinical/dietary variables. Methods: This was a longitudinal study. Ten women with obesity (Obese Group, ObG) participated in an 8-week home-based hypocaloric diet intervention. Anthropometric, dietary intake, biochemical, and gut microbiota assessments were conducted before and after the intervention. Microbiota relative abundance was determined using real-time PCR in triplicate. Results: In the ObG, the hypocaloric diet intervention led to significant weight loss (before: 119.5 ± 10.3 kg; after: 114.9 ± 10.2 kg; p = 0.003). Following the intervention, positive correlations were observed between nutrient intake and phyla composition: Actinobacteria phylum with fibers (r = 0.787; p = 0.012), Firmicutes phylum with proteins (r = 0.736; p = 0.024), and Proteobacteria phylum with lipids (r = 0.669; p = 0.049). Conclusions: The hypocaloric diet intervention improved health parameters associated with obesity and its comorbidities, demonstrating associations between nutrient intake and specific phyla.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue How to Prevent Obesity and Inflammatory Disease 2024)
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Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Body Mass Index, Body Composition, Physical Activity, and Dietary Preferences in University Students: A Pilot Study
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Karin Petřeková, Nadezhda Borzenko, Martina Kovalová and Nikol Gottfriedová
Obesities 2024, 4(1), 35-44; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4010004 - 20 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Body composition analysis, particularly the assessment of the amount and distribution of body fat and muscle mass in young people, is of considerable clinical importance for the detection of nutritional disorders. (2) Methods: University students aged 19–25 years had their body
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(1) Background: Body composition analysis, particularly the assessment of the amount and distribution of body fat and muscle mass in young people, is of considerable clinical importance for the detection of nutritional disorders. (2) Methods: University students aged 19–25 years had their body composition measured using a bioimpedance (BIA) device InBody 370S. Furthermore, a questionnaire survey was performed using the questionnaires: factors that influence your choice of food (FCQ); food preference questionnaire for adolescents and adults (FPQ); the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ). (3) Results: Body mass index (BMI) values were within a normal range in 89.5% of men and 77.9% of women, while statistically significant differences between the sexes were confirmed for all body parameters (p < 0.001; p = 0.025). The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and percentage body fat (PBF) were abnormally high in 50.4% and 44.3% of women, respectively. High values of skeletal muscle mass (SMM), protein, minerals, and bone mineral content (BMC) were identified in 36.8% of men. A total of 88 students (66.7% of men and women) had a higher level of physical activity, i.e., achieved metabolic equivalent (MET) values of more than 3000 per week. (4) Conclusions: BMI does not always have explanatory power for assessing body weight, as it does not consider the percentage distribution of fat and non-fat body mass in the total body weight. Physical activity and a varied diet have a positive effect on achieving optimal body weight and are effective in preventing nutritional disorders (such as obesity and malnutrition) and associated health problems.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
The Potential Role of Leptin in the Regulation of Maternal Weight during Pregnancy and Its Impact on Neonate Weight and Apgar
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Daniela G. M. Fonseca, Maria-Carmen N. Souza-Carmo, Raquel N. Ruas, Solange S. Pereira, Lílian Goncalves Teixeira and e Jacqueline I. Alvarez-Leite
Obesities 2024, 4(1), 24-34; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4010003 - 7 Mar 2024
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Leptin is secreted by adipose tissue and expressed in several organs, including the placenta. We investigated the influence of leptin in maternal blood on leptin expression and concentration in the placenta and umbilical cord and its influence on fetal weight and conditions at
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Leptin is secreted by adipose tissue and expressed in several organs, including the placenta. We investigated the influence of leptin in maternal blood on leptin expression and concentration in the placenta and umbilical cord and its influence on fetal weight and conditions at the time of birth. Twenty-five parturients were recruited, and after childbirth, placental tissue fragments, umbilical arteries, and vein blood were collected. According to leptin concentration in maternal peripheral blood, parturients were divided into low and high leptin groups. Mothers in the high-leptin group had higher age, pre-pregnancy weight, pre-pregnancy BMI, and weight in late pregnancy than mothers in the low-leptin group. Children of mothers in the high-leptin group presented an Apgar score modestly lower than those of the low-leptin group. No differences were observed in leptin concentrations in the umbilical artery and vein. However, the leptin retained in the fetus increased in the high-leptin group compared to the low-leptin group. We observed a negative correlation between fetal leptin retained and maternal age in the low-leptin group. In the high-leptin group, placental leptin concentration was positively correlated with maternal weight in late pregnancy. Nonetheless, the expression of the leptin receptor (Ob-Rb) was negatively correlated with newborn length. In conclusion, this study found a positive correlation between maternal leptin levels and maternal pre-pregnancy weight, BMI, and fetal birth weight. These findings suggest a potential role of leptin in maternal weight regulation during pregnancy and fetal growth.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
The Double Burden of Malnutrition among Adolescents from Zimbabwe: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Ashleigh Pencil, Tonderayi Mathew Matsungo, Thomas Mavhu Chuchu, Nobuko Hongu and Naomi Hayami
Obesities 2024, 4(1), 9-23; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4010002 - 5 Mar 2024
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(1) Background: The double burden of malnutrition (DBM) is an emerging public health concern among children and adolescents in developing countries. This study investigated the prevalence and factors associated with being underweight and overweight among adolescents. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted
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(1) Background: The double burden of malnutrition (DBM) is an emerging public health concern among children and adolescents in developing countries. This study investigated the prevalence and factors associated with being underweight and overweight among adolescents. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 adolescents across 10 high schools in Harare. A questionnaire was used to collect data and weight for height-z-scores were used to compute body mass index. Pearson’s Chi-Square and multinomial logistic regression were used to test for associations and explore factors associated with being underweight or overweight at (p < 0.05). (3) Results: The median and IQR range for the participants was 16 (14–19) years. There were more girls 53.2%, than boys 46.8% (p = 0.002), and more 14–16-year-olds 54.1%, than 17–19-year-olds (p = 0.070). More boys 10% than girls 9.1% were underweight, whereas more girls 21.8% than boys 9.3% were overweight and obese (p = 0.002). By age, more 14–16-year -olds were underweight 12.7% than 17–19-year-olds 5.9%, whereas more 17–19-year-olds 16.2% were overweight than 14–16-year-olds (p = 0.070). Significant factors associated with being underweight were inadequate balanced nutrition knowledge [OR = 1.49 (0.139–0.997), p = 0.049], being in the 14–16 years age group [OR = 2.56 (1.137–5.779), p = 0.023], having formally employed [OR = 2.34 (1.008–5.428), p = 0.048] and unemployed [OR = 5.17 (1.263–21.116), p = 0.022] household heads. Significant factors associated with overweight were being a girl [OR = 0.32 (0.168–2.561), p < 0.001, and having formally employed household heads [OR = 2.00 (1.044–1.206), p = 0.037]. The employment status of the household head (being formally employed) was the only factor which associated with both underweight and overweight statuses. (4) Conclusions: Although underweight and overweight statuses co-exist, among adolescents, those who are overweight appear to be more than those who are underweight. Significant factors associated with being underweight were inadequate nutrition knowledge, being 14–16 years old, and having formally employed or unemployed parents. While being a girl and having formally employed parents were significant determinants of the overweight status. This paper calls for more awareness of DBM and context-specific interventions targeting obesity in a country where undernutrition has been traditionally prioritized at policy and program levels.
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Open AccessBrief Report
Impact of Intensive Lifestyle Intervention on Remission of Metabolic Syndrome, Prediabetes, Diabetes, and Hypertension in Adults Living with Obesity
by
Pierre-Olivier Magnan, Josep Iglesies-Grau, Élise Latour, Valérie Guilbeault, Anil Nigam, Martin Juneau, Louis Bherer and Mathieu Gayda
Obesities 2024, 4(1), 1-8; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities4010001 - 26 Feb 2024
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Background: Lifestyle intervention programs have long been shown to be effective in preventing cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRFs) such as metabolic syndrome (MS), impaired fasting glycaemia (IFG), type II diabetes (T2DM), and hypertension (HTA). However, their potential for remission of these CMRFs in overweight/obese
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Background: Lifestyle intervention programs have long been shown to be effective in preventing cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRFs) such as metabolic syndrome (MS), impaired fasting glycaemia (IFG), type II diabetes (T2DM), and hypertension (HTA). However, their potential for remission of these CMRFs in overweight/obese adults is less clear. The importance of attaining remission has significantly increased as these CMRFs are more and more prevalent. Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the impact of an intensive lifestyle intervention program on the remission of MS, IFG, T2DM, and HTA in overweight/obese adults. Methods: Forty participants living with overweight/obesity were enrolled in an 18-month multidisciplinary primary prevention body mass loss intervention program. MS, IFG, T2DM, and HTA statuses were assessed at baseline, 9 months, and the end of the program. Results: At baseline, 25 participants (64.1%) had MS, 7 (17.9%) had IFG, 4 (10.2%) were living with diabetes, and 28 (70.0%) had HTA. At 18 months, six (24%) of the participants living with MS, two (28.6%) of the participants with IFG, two (50%) of the participants with diabetes, and two (7.1%) of the participants with HTA met all criteria for remission. Conclusion: An intensive lifestyle intervention program consisting of monitored exercise training and lifestyle modification counselling has great potential for achieving remission of CMRFs in adults living with overweight/obesity.
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Open AccessReview
Gut Microbiota and Obesity: The Chicken or the Egg?
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Daniele S. Tassoni, Rodrigo C. O. Macedo, Felipe M. Delpino and Heitor O. Santos
Obesities 2023, 3(4), 296-321; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities3040024 - 27 Nov 2023
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Although the link between gut microbiota and obesity is increasingly reported, the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical outcomes are still under debate. This overview of human and animal data addresses several pathophysiologic mechanisms, dietary habits, exercise and probiotic and symbiotic supplementation in the fields
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Although the link between gut microbiota and obesity is increasingly reported, the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical outcomes are still under debate. This overview of human and animal data addresses several pathophysiologic mechanisms, dietary habits, exercise and probiotic and symbiotic supplementation in the fields of gut microbiota and obesity. Overall, obesity impairs gut microbiota composition due to factors that may be linked to the onset of the disease, such as excessive consumption of high-energy foods, sugars and fats, as well as a low fiber intake and physical inactivity. Conversely, low-energy diets, physical exercise, and probiotic and prebiotic supplementations can enhance gut microbiota in patients with obesity, in addition to improving cardiometabolic markers. As for perspectives, further research is warranted to ascertain proper dietary manipulation, physical exercise protocols and dosing regimens of probiotics. Regarding the latter, the effects on indicators of obesity are clinically modest, and hence skepticism must be exercised.
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring Factors Associated with Gender Differences in Perceived Stress among Adults with Higher Body Weight in the United States—A Cross-Sectional Analysis
by
Nadeeja N. Wijayatunga, Joseph D. Wellman and Kevin Tomasko
Obesities 2023, 3(4), 287-295; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities3040023 - 27 Nov 2023
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This study aimed to explore factors associated with perceived stress in adults with higher body sizes. An analysis of data from participants who self-reported higher body weight was conducted (n = 1716). The mean (standard deviation) age was 55.92 (15.94) years and 71.3%
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This study aimed to explore factors associated with perceived stress in adults with higher body sizes. An analysis of data from participants who self-reported higher body weight was conducted (n = 1716). The mean (standard deviation) age was 55.92 (15.94) years and 71.3% and 28.7% identified themselves as women and men, respectively. Gender differences in perceived stress, desire for weight loss, trust in physicians, body affirmation, and perceived weight discrimination were examined. Perceived stress and perceived weight discrimination were significantly higher in women than in men, while trust in physicians and body affirmation was higher in men than women. Trust in physicians and body affirmation were both negatively associated with perceived stress. Perceived weight discrimination and desire for weight loss were both positively associated with perceived stress. Trust in physicians, body affirmation, and perceived weight discrimination were examined as mediators of the observed gender differences between men and women. Trust in physicians, body affirmation, and perceived weight discrimination were significant mediators of the relationship between gender and perceived stress. These results suggest that a possible point of intervention for addressing gender differences in rates of perceived stress among higher body weight adults may be to increase trust in physicians, encourage body affirmation, and reduce weight discrimination.
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Sulforaphane and Chlorophyl a in a Western Diet-Induced Obesity Model
by
Tânia Martins, Ana Filipa Matos, Joana Soares, Rúben Leite, Maria João Pires, Maria de Lurdes Pinto, Maria João Neuparth, Sandra Mariza Monteiro, Ana Rita Sequeira, Luís Félix, Carlos Venâncio, Eduardo Rosa, Paula Alexandra Oliveira and Luís Miguel Antunes
Obesities 2023, 3(4), 265-286; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities3040022 - 17 Nov 2023
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The global rise in obesity and its co-morbidities raises worldwide health, social and economic concerns, especially in developed countries. Compounds derived from natural sources are now in the focus of pharmacological therapies. In recent years, sulforaphane (SFN) has been the subject of studies
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The global rise in obesity and its co-morbidities raises worldwide health, social and economic concerns, especially in developed countries. Compounds derived from natural sources are now in the focus of pharmacological therapies. In recent years, sulforaphane (SFN) has been the subject of studies due to its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and potential anti-obesity effects. Lately, some studies have also reported the anti-obesogenic potential of chlorophyll. In this study, we evaluated the anti-obesity effects of SFN and chlorophyll a (Chlo.a) in C57BL/6J mice fed with a Western diet, rich in sugar and fat. The study lasted 14 weeks, and for the last 4 weeks SFN (0.25 or 0.5 mg/kg/day) or Chlo.a (0.2 or 0.5 mg/kg/day) was administered orally. The results showed that supplementation with SFN or Chlo.a resulted in an increase in body temperature and a reduction in the size of adipocytes. However, the administration of SFN or Chlo.a for 4 weeks did not decrease the body weight gain or hepatic steatosis, and increased hepatic ROS counterbalancing with an increase in SOD activity. In conclusion, in the animal model used, treatment with SFN or Chlo.a did not show strong anti-obesity effects; however, slight improvements were observed with the supplementation of these compounds.
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Open AccessArticle
Gut Microbiota Profiles of Children with Obesity or Metabolic Syndrome: Body Mass Index Is a Lead Actor
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Grace N. Gathungu, Daniel N. Frank, Anupama Chawla, Charles E. Robertson, Joseph F. LaComb, Katherine Markarian, Brianna M. Burghard and Robert Woroniecki
Obesities 2023, 3(3), 253-264; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities3030021 - 14 Sep 2023
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The worldwide prevalence of obesity and associated metabolic syndrome (MetS) has increased threefold over the last five decades. Among children, this trend is alarming due to the premature onset of MetS. The data regarding how the structure and composition of gastrointestinal (GIT) microbiota
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The worldwide prevalence of obesity and associated metabolic syndrome (MetS) has increased threefold over the last five decades. Among children, this trend is alarming due to the premature onset of MetS. The data regarding how the structure and composition of gastrointestinal (GIT) microbiota either promote or attenuate obesity and MetS are limited. Objectives: We carried out this study to investigate the relationship between microbial profiles and diagnosis of MetS among children with obesity. Fifty subjects with a diagnosis of obesity or Mets were enrolled. We collected clinical information, demographic data, dietary records, and stool specimens. Overall, there was no significant difference in the diversity of GIT microbiota between the two subgroups of children with obesity or MetS. We also found no differences in the diversity of GIT microbiota between the sexes and blood pressure categories. However, we observed a significant difference between the structure, composition, and diversity of the gut microbiome when the subjects were stratified using a BMI cut-off of 30. Subjects with a BMI ≥ 30 had a lower abundance of Bacteroidetes and a greater abundance of Actinobacteria and Firmicutes compared to those with a BMI value of less than 30. This gut microbiota signature is more like the GIT microbiome profile of adults with obesity and may represent accelerated changes among children. Additional studies are needed to investigate the role of obesity in the maturation of gut microbiota in children with morbid obesity.
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