Obesity has become a major public health burdenworldwide due to the huge social and economic impactderived from its related comorbidities [1]. Excessivebody weight has been estimated to account for 16 % ofthe global burden disease [2] and according to WorldHealth Organization estimates, over 600 million adultsare obese worldwide Obesity is described as a multietiologicaldisorder and several factors have beenshown to be involved in its onset and development [1].Despite the important progression in the study of obesity,prevalence rates continue to increase, suggestingthat additional elements must be involved in the pathogenesisof this disease. Moreover, even if weight lossprograms are effective, keeping the weight off continuesto be an almost insurmountable challenge [3]. In thiscontext, new theories are arising regarding food intake.Understanding obesity as a food addiction is a novel approachthat has garnered considerable attention. Somestudies have shown an association between mood andthe overall dietary pattern including specific nutrients[4]. Recent research also shows that palatable and highcalorie food may have addictive potential. Subjectschronically eat some foods in amounts larger thanneeded for staying healthy, which shows a loss of controlin food behaviour [5]. Additionally, a 40 % prevalenceof food addiction has been shown in obeseindividuals seeking bariatric surgery [6]. All these tracesindicate that there may be a potential relationship betweenbehaviour and weight gain.
展开▼
