Overweight and Obesity

As overweight progresses, people develop the condition known as obesity. As the body is overtaxed and overfed with sugar and short-chain carbohydrates (bread, pasta, potatoes, sweet beverages, etc.) this process overloads liver metabolism, resulting in a build-up of toxic fatty tissue. Under such conditions, individual fat cells become producers of dangerous endocrine hormones. The release a series of inflammatory factors (TNFα, Il6, INFγ...), hormonal substances that lead, in excess, to a complete loss of the feeling of satiety (leptin), and to greatly excessive effective levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor. These abnormal metabolic conditions go on to become the launching pad for virtually all of the so-called diseases of civilization.

A number of conditions may be initiated or accelerated by obesity, including inflammatory illnesses, various neurodegenerative illnesses such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis (MS), many malignancies, Type II diabetes, arteriosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes. Sadly, well-intended suggestions such as exercising more and eating less frequently fall on deaf ears. Thus, 30% of 20 -24 year-olds today are considered overweight, and 40% of persons affected are under 18 years of age. Overall, in Germany, about 50 million individuals are overweight and 20 million suffer from obesity.

Combined strategies are definitely required in order to lessen food cravings in affected persons and to buffer states of relative hypoglycemia. Substitute carbohydrates (galactose), Vitamins D and B, essential fats (omega-3 fatty acids), amino acids and protein can all be helpful. Only by surmounting the metabolic urges and supporting core energy balance is it possible to successfully alter diet and increase exercise. As a second step in treatment, it is important to initiate gradual and sustained weight reduction in order to return to health.