Nutrition and current concepts of obesity

Obesity is and has been one of the foremost health problems in the U.S. and in many other countries. It is so interrelated with different factors that it is very difficult to single out the effect of one particular aspect. However, an effort is made in this review to focus on obesity only from a nutritional point of view. Childhood nutrition and its impact on obesity is particularly emphasised since weight gain during early infancy has been associated with obesity in later stages of life. There is considerable evidence that links obesity with certain diseases of the cardiovascular system and diabetes. A review of this relationship is also outlined based on recent developments. The causes, classification and consequences of obesity are discussed in detail followed by critical evaluation of the possible and prevalent treatment methods.