The fundamental cause of obesity and overweight is an energy imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended. Globally, there has been:
- an increased intake of energy-dense foods that are high in fat and sugars; and
- an increase in physical inactivity due to the increasingly sedentary nature of many forms of work, changing modes of transportation, and increasing urbanization.
Being overweight can lead to a cluster of conditions that, when combined, increase the risk of other health problems. These conditions include unbalanced blood pressure, blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels.
Also, the gut microbiome plays a vital role in many aspects of our health, from nutrient absorption to immune function, weight management, and even mental health. When there´s an imbalance in our microbiome, this can give rise to inflammation, diabetes, excess body weight, and accelerated ageing.
It is therefore necessary to develop ingredients that, together with a healthy lifestyle, positively impact an individual’s metabolic health.