In the United States, obesity is an epidemic. Current statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal that 1 in 3 adults and 1 in 5 kids suffer from the health problem. Obesity leads to numerous life-threatening conditions, including a higher propensity toward heart disease, stroke, and cancer. The standard treatment for obese patients includes workout regimens and other therapies, with dietary intake playing a key role.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University recently studied the accrual of fat cells within the human body to determine how body composition is determined. The peer-reviewed study – published in Biophysical Journal in March – revealed that the balance of nutrients does not create obesity by itself. Rather, a process called cellular expansion is fundamental to the growth of fat and the transition into obesity.
This study is particularly noteworthy because the authors didn’t stop at just collecting information and analyzing it. Rather, they are constructing a computer environment through which medical scientists will be able to create and modify treatments.
Force & fat
The researchers wondered how natural forces generated through bodily positions might create additional fat within fat cells (i.e. cellular expansion). They were particularly interested in why sitting for extended periods might be problematic beyond the lack of exercise that could otherwise accomplish weight loss.
The findings suggested that fat cells undergoing long-term force, as occurs to the buttocks in a sedentary lifestyle, produce lipid droplets (molecules containing fat) at a faster pace than when pressure is not present. The resulting expansion of the cells represented as much as a 50% increase, drastically altering body composition through a domino effect.
As lipid droplets grew in number within a cell, causing expansion, the mechanics of the cell were significantly altered: the fat cells became more rigid. As they grew and encroached on neighboring cells, the rigidity caused deformity of those cells, which in turn expanded, creating a sort of “fat cell sprawl.”
Moving forward
The implications of this study for weight loss solutions are profound. Understanding the mechanics of fat cells allows researchers to craft therapies that avoid force and redirect the cells toward a healthier homeostasis.
The development of science related to obesity and weight loss is exciting. However, many individuals need solutions now for immediate improvement in their quality of life and protection from chronic health conditions. Our comprehensive program helps our patients lose up to 1 pound per day.