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Excessive fat tissue has a direct effect on the productivity of the immune system by slowing it down or interrupting the activity of the cells. It can alter the number of leukocytes , neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes an individual has, while also lowering T and B cell mitogen -induced production.
The obesus or fat character in Ancient Greek comedy was a glutton and figure of mockery. During Christian times, food was viewed as a gateway to the sins of sloth and lust. [20] In modern Western culture, excess weight is often regarded as unattractive, and obesity is commonly associated with various negative stereotypes.
Being overweight [a] is having more body fat than is optimally healthy. Being overweight is especially common where food supplies are plentiful and lifestyles are sedentary.. As of 2003, excess weight reached epidemic proportions globally, with more than 1 billion adults being either overweight or obese. [1]
The medical condition of being overweight or obesity is defined as "abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health". [2] It is measured through the Body Mass Index (BMI), defined as a person's weight, in kilograms, divided by the square of the person's height, in meters. If an individual has a BMI of 25–29, he or she is overweight.
When energy intake exceeds energy expenditure (when the body is in positive energy balance), the body can store the excess energy as fat. However, the physiology of weight gain and loss is complex involving numerous hormones, body systems and environmental factors. Other factors besides energy balance that may contribute to gaining weight include:
Intake of trans fat from industrial oils has been associated with increased abdominal obesity in men [35] and increased weight and waist circumference in women. [36] These associations were not attenuated when fat intake and calorie intake was accounted for. [37] [38]
Overnutrition (also known as hyperalimentation) is a form of malnutrition in which the intake of nutrients is oversupplied. The amount of nutrients exceeds the amount required for normal growth, development, and metabolism. Overnutrition can lead to:
Visceral fat is composed of several adipose depots including mesenteric, epididymal white adipose tissue (EWAT), and perirenal fat. An excess of adipose visceral fat is known as central obesity, the "pot belly" or "beer belly" effect, in which the abdomen protrudes excessively. This body type is also known as "apple shaped", as opposed to "pear ...