Obesity, energy intake and eating behavior: A review of the main factors involved

Abstract

Obesity is a global health problem and one of the main causes of chronic diseases. There are several factors that influence eating behavior and obesity, which can be genetic, physiological, nutritional, psychological or sociocultural. In recent decades, the change in lifestyle has caused inadequate eating patterns, coupled with a decrease in energy expenditure. This review describes the main physiological, nutritional and psychological factors that intervene in energy intake and eating behavior and how they can -by regulating appetite and body weight- influence the development of obesity. The neuropsychology of food reward, preferences, choice and eating behavior are aspects not yet understood. Future research needs to focus on elucidating the pathways involved in the rewarding aspects of food and, as an alternative to control obesity, replicate this experience with healthier foods. However, understanding the link between food, energy intake and body weight regulation will only be achieved through multidisciplinary work.