In the historical record there is abundant evidence that obesity was a medical and health concern as long as medicine has been practiced. The idea of diet and exercise are bulwarks in the fight against obesity in history from the time of Hippocrates to the 16th century—a span of 2,000 years. However, our scientific understanding of this problem is only a little over 200 years old. An examination of the root cause of what many consider the obesity epidemic,A Guide to Obesity and the Metabolic Syndrome traces the origins and types of obesity and its treatment.

Examining in detail the developing treatment for obesity, this book provides:

A history of obesity, including treatment, proposed causes, and perceptions An examination of the causes and problems associated with obesity A discussion of lifestyle, diet, exercise, and treatment strategies A detailed look at the medications and surgeries available for obesity

The fact that we have an epidemic of obesity today that is covering the globe suggests that the strategically simple ideas of eating less and exercising more, ideas that require commitment and personal involvement by the individual, have not been very successful. As we move forward in trying to understand this problem, we need to be alert to strategies and tactics that may not require individual motivation and commitment—history has shown that they do not work well. This book supplies guidance on developing and designing novel strategic interventions against obesity and metabolic disorders.

Contents

Origins

Origins of Obesity in the Scientific Era—AD 1500 to the Present

Introduction

Sixteenth Century

Seventeenth Century

Eighteenth Century

Nineteenth Century

Twentieth Century: An Age of Specialization in Science and Medicine

Definition, Measurement, and Prevalence

Introduction

Definitions

Describing Body Composition

Methods of Measuring Body Weight and Body Fat

Ins Used to Measure Body Composition

Instrumental Methods for Measuring Visceral Fat

Body Fat through the Life Span

Body Fat and Body Energy Stores

Criteria for the Metabolic Syndrome

Prevalence of Obesity

Metabolic Syndrome

Conclusion

Genetic, Metabolic, and Social Origins of Obesity

Introduction

Genetic Factors

Epigenetic and Intrauterine Imprinting

Environmental Agents and Obesity: An Epidemiologic Approach

Regulation of Body Fat: A Homeostatic Model of Energy Regulation

Effects of Obesity on Health and Metabolism

Introduction

Historical Context for the Risks of Overweight as a Disease

Costs of Obesity

The Pathology of Obesity

The Pathophysiology of Central and Total Fat

Benefits and Potential Risks of Weight Loss

Treatment

Prevention, Evaluation, and Introduction to Treatment

Introduction

Prevention of Obesity

Introduction to Treatment

Criteria for...