By Aishani Balakumar
What is an Obesogen?
Before we go into more about obesity, it is important that we know what an obesogen is. There are around 50 chemicals, possibly even more, that contribute to obesity and one of the main ones are obesogens. An obesogen is a chemical which allows a living organism to gain fat (King, 2022). The next section of this article explains a few types of obesogens and how they are transferred into the human body.
Types of Obesogens
Bisphenol A
A common example of an obesogen is a chemical compound called Bisphenol A (BPA). It is used in the production of polycarbonate plastics such as shatter proof windows or even ear wear. Its journey into the body for most people is the diet. Air, water and dust are all possible ways as well however, BPA in food is what the majority of the daily human exposure. (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences 2018)
Phthalates
Another common example of an obesogen is the chemical Phthalates. Phthalates are chemicals which soften and improve the flexibility of plastics. Phthalates do not only affect obesity, but also affects other health conditions such as asthma (Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP), 2017). Inhalation, ingestion and skin absorption are all possible ways of exposure into the human body.
These two examples of obesogens can impel organisms to produce new fat cells or possibly make them to store additional fat. Most of us can experience this every day (King, 2022). The next section talks about calories and the effect that they have on you.
Counting Calories
If you are worried about becoming overweight, it is really important that you track how many calories you have because it benefits your health and also gives you an early sign whether you should see a doctor or not. If you do not track your calories on a regular basis, you may start to gain weight without even realising it.
This image shows a negative energy balance, which is not what is best to lose weight.
Conclusion
Overall, this article explains about what obesity is, and ways that specific chemicals can transfer into your body. It also gives a brief picture of the main way to prevent obesity. So far, there is no mention by scientists of any new or upcoming facilities that will help the obesity crisis reduce, however it will still be interesting to see what will come up in the future.