The Effect of Lifestyle and Eating Habits on Obesity

Dear Colleagues,

Obesity has emerged as a global health epidemic, with its prevalence steadily increasing over the past few decades. Obesity is defined as a multifactorial disease, characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat, with significant health risks and challenges to individuals and healthcare systems worldwide. The observed increase in obesity rates can be attributed to a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and predominantly lifestyle-related factors. One of the primary contributors to the obesity pandemic is a transformation in lifestyle patterns, marked by sedentary behaviors and dietary shifts. Modern urbanization as well as smart working, adopted in particular during and after the COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2021, have led to a decline in physical activity levels, with technological advancements promoting a more sedentary lifestyle and contributing to the energy imbalance as a driver of obesity. Furthermore, changes in dietary habits have played a pivotal role in the obesity surge. The ubiquity of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods, often high in sugars and fats, has become a hallmark of contemporary diets. Fast food consumption, coupled with a shift towards larger portion sizes and increased intake of processed foods, has led to a caloric surplus that exceeds the body's metabolic needs. Such an imbalance has been closely linked to weight gain and the onset of obesity. Moreover, economic factors, such as limited access to affordable, nutritious foods in certain communities, can exacerbate disparities in obesity prevalence. Additionally, marketing practices promoting unhealthy food choices can influence individual behaviors, contributing to the obesogenic environment. In conclusion, the increasing prevalence of obesity is a critical public health concern. In this context, this Special Issue aims to explore the relationship between lifestyle choices, (including physical activity, sleep patterns, and stress management), dietary habits or interventions, and the prevalence of obesity in order to provide novel effective prevention and intervention strategies.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Alessandra Feraco
Dr. Andrea Armani
Dr. Mauro Lombardo
Guest Editors

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• nutraceuticals
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