You Are What You Eat-And So Is Your Brain

Obesity and been overweight goes beyond just your appearance or body positivity, it goes as deep as affecting every single organ of your body.

According to World Health Organization, overweight and obesity is the abnormal or excessive fat accumulation of the body that presents a risk to health. A body mass index (BMI)-amount of body fat of over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 falls into the obese category.

Gaining excess weight is usually the easy part and this is mostly linked to our lifestyle choices of over eating processed and high calorie foods like sugary snacks, pastries or unhealthy fat. Low fiber intake, diets low in vegetables, fruits or whole grains could also contribute to weight gain, skipping meals or irregular eating also leads to over eating and high-fat and sugar diets which usually alter metabolism and hormone balance while encouraging fat storage in the body.

As the rate of obesity increases, it is important to know and understand the damaging effects it has not just to our bodies, but also on our mental functioning.

The Impact of Obesity on Brain Function

Studies show that been overweight has an adverse effect on our brain function, as the body weight goes up, the size and functionality of the brain goes down. The brain of an overweight person is 8 years older and has 4% less volume than that of a healthy person, and an obese person has 8% less volume and brain that is 16years older. 

An illustration of a brain highlights the connection between different types of foods and brain function

The Nervous System

Obesity can lead to a rise in blood cholesterol, resulting in high blood pressure. The rise in blood pressure can hinder blood flow to the brain leading to the chances of stroke. Strokes results in the damage of the nervous system and hamper the brain’s ability to control the body.

Additionally, the inflammation and hormonal changes that is caused by obesity can disrupt the brain chemicals responsible for sending signals, this may lead to cognitive decline.

The Digestive System

There is a high risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) associated with obesity, this occurs when the stomach acid leaks out into the esophagus causing pain and a long-term damage.

Been obese also raises the risk of developing gallstones and can lead to liver complications like liver damage and liver failure, this condition interferes with nutrient absorption and can lead to further health issues.

The Respiratory System

Fat accumulation around the neck constricts the airways, thereby, making breathing more difficult. This condition is called sleep apnea, which is experienced by many obese people, where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, making it difficult to breathe for small periods. This condition affects sleep quality and individuals that experience this are at a higher risk of developing heart disease, which can be addressed as respiratory function declines.

The Cardiovascular System

Carrying an additional weight places a heavy strain on the heart and blood vessels, it increases blood pressure and cholesterol which affects the cardiovascular system, obesity affects hearth health and also increases the chances of a heart attack.

The Skeletal and Muscular Systems

Increased mass places greater stress on the muscles and bones causing muscle mass and bone density to deteriorate, this known as osteosarcopenic obesity. It results in an increased risk of physical disability, fractures and insulin resistance, it also leads to reduced bone and muscle quality.

The Reproductive System

Obesity results in decreased testosterone which affects libido, makes it difficult for one to conceive, while also increasing the risk of serious complications during pregnancy.

Excess fat is responsible for hormonal imbalance, as the endocrine system suffers due to obesity. Hormonal imbalance, especially increased insulin resistance raises the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Mental Health

Being obese can affect your mental health negatively, people dealing with obesity are more likely to deal with more negative emotions, poor well-being and psychopathological symptoms. 

Poor mental health can make the body more susceptible to diseases and obesity can result in poor self-esteem, depression and issues with body image.

The Bottom Line

Been over weight goes way beyond appearance, it has a great impact on the vital organs and the systems that keep us alive. Understanding the powerful connection between the type of food we eat, our weight and overall health keeps each individual alert and gives them a choice to take proactive steps towards a long-lasting wellbeing.

Small lifestyle changes can go a long way in saving our lives, like aiming to incorporate healthy foods such as whole foods, fruits and vegetables into our diets. Getting quality sleep also helps keep us in shape as poor sleep fuels weight gain and hormonal disruption. Managing stress, cutting down on sugar and refined carbs, and regular physical activities are all essential steps to yielding big benefits.

Raising awareness and promoting education about obesity-related issues can help keep our society more informed and capable or promoting a healthier lifestyle free of chronic diseases.

Remember, we are fundamentally shaped by what we eat.