Many people struggle with managing their weight, often focusing on diet and exercise. However, a less understood factor contributing to weight gain involves environmental chemicals known as obesogens. These substances can interfere with the body’s natural metabolic processes, potentially leading to increased fat storage and difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. Obesogens are present in various aspects of daily life, with food and its packaging being a significant route of exposure.
What Are Obesogens?
Obesogens are chemical compounds that alter how the body manages lipids and stores fat. They are a type of endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC), interfering with the body’s hormone system. Unlike traditional factors like calorie intake or physical activity, obesogens can influence metabolic set points, disrupt energy balance, and modify appetite and satiety regulation.
These chemicals are man-made and found widely in the environment. The term “obesogen” describes chemicals that disrupt normal metabolic processes, increasing susceptibility to weight gain, particularly when exposure occurs early in development. While diet and exercise remain important, obesogens suggest environmental factors also contribute to rising obesity rates.
How Obesogens Affect the Body
Obesogens influence the body’s metabolism and fat regulation. They interfere with hormone signaling, affecting hormones such as thyroid hormones, insulin, estrogen, and androgens. This disruption alters how the body processes and stores energy.
These chemicals can promote the creation of new fat cells or increase the size of existing fat cells. They also impact appetite regulation and satiety signals, affecting feelings of hunger and fullness. Obesogens can disrupt energy balance and metabolic rate, making it harder for the body to burn calories efficiently.
Some obesogens impact gut microbiota composition, which in turn influences metabolism. For example, certain food emulsifiers have been linked to changes in the gut microbiome, contributing to metabolic issues and increased body weight. These effects can occur even at low exposure levels and are particularly impactful during prenatal and early childhood periods, potentially affecting later-life health.
Common Obesogens Found in Food
Several common obesogens are encountered through food and its packaging. Bisphenol A (BPA) is found in the linings of food and beverage cans and in various plastic containers. This substance can migrate from packaging into the food itself.
Phthalates are another group of obesogens used in plastic packaging materials. These chemicals can leach into food items, especially fatty foods. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFOA/PFOS), often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are present in non-stick cookware and certain food wrappers.
Pesticides represent another source, with residues found on non-organic fruits and vegetables. These agricultural chemicals can persist on produce even after washing. Heavy metals can contaminate food through environmental pollution, contributing to obesogen exposure.
Minimizing Exposure to Obesogens in Food
Reducing exposure to obesogens through food involves conscious choices about what you eat and how you store it. Prioritizing fresh, whole, and unprocessed foods minimizes contact with packaged goods that might contain these chemicals. Opting for organic produce when available can significantly reduce pesticide residues.
When storing or heating food, choose glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers instead of plastic. This prevents chemicals from leaching into your meals. Avoiding non-stick cookware and using alternatives like cast iron or stainless steel can limit PFOA/PFOS exposure.
Reduce consumption of canned and highly processed foods, as these come into contact with obesogen-containing packaging materials. Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables, regardless of whether they are organic, to remove surface residues. While complete avoidance is challenging, these practical steps can effectively lower your overall exposure to obesogens.