The Obesogenic environment: role in the development of obesity and impact on metabolic health

The increasing prevalence of obesity and associated chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), osteoarthritis, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer, has led to the development of the concept of an obesogenic environment as a combination of dietary, physical, social, and economic factors that contribute to weight gain and obesity.

Objective of the review is to analyze the accumulated data on the role of obesogenic environmental factors in the development of obesity and associated diseases. To analyze recently accumulated data on the role of obesogenic environment factors in the development of obesity and associated diseases.

Materials and methods. А literature search was conducted using the Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI), PubMed, and Google Scholar using the keywords «obesogenic environment» and «obesity.» A literature search was conducted using the Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI), PubMed, and Google Scholar databases using the keywords «obesogenic environment» and «obesity.»

Results. Аn association was demonstrated between increasing body mass index (BMI) and increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF), which primarily consist of prepared ingredients with little or no whole food. These include soft drinks, sweet and salty snacks, chips, French fries, and sausages. UPF are not included in any of the currently developed healthy eating pyramids. Obesogens can come from environmental pollutants (metal ions in water, microparticles in the air, etc.). Obesogenic factors include low physical activity. Improving the dietary structure and enriching the diet with specialized foods fortified with micronutrients and biologically active substances reduces the impact of obesogenic factors.

Conclusion. The development and progression of obesity are multifaceted. To combat obesity and associated diseases, an integrated approach that encompasses all known mechanisms, including changes in dietary habits and social and behavioral factors, appears appropriate.

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