Obesity Medicine

Obesity and Eating Disorders

Obesity and eating disorders often coexist, presenting complex clinical challenges. Conditions such as binge eating disorder, night eating syndrome, and emotional eating contribute to excessive caloric intake and weight gain. Psychological factors, including stress, depression, anxiety, and body image dissatisfaction, influence eating behaviors and complicate obesity management. Early recognition and comprehensive assessment are essential to provide effective interventions. Treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach combining nutritional counseling, behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and pharmacological support when necessary. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and motivational interviewing are effective in addressing maladaptive eating patterns. Understanding the underlying psychological and biological mechanisms helps clinicians develop personalized treatment plans. Public health initiatives focusing on awareness, stigma reduction, and early intervention can prevent progression of eating disorders and associated obesity. Research continues to explore neurobiological pathways, genetic predisposition, and innovative therapies to manage this complex interplay effectively.