Abstract des Autors

In its most basic sense, obesity is considered a pathological excess of adiposity that is the result of energy intake chronically exceeding energy expenditure (Blundell 2001). Indeed, diet and physical activity are considered the cornerstones of obesity prevention and treatment strategies. However, data supporting a hypothesis that suggests people are eating more and moving less is limited in developed nations such as the United States (Eisenmann 2003). However, national survey data for the United States does suggest that there has been an increase in fast-food consumption (Ebbeling et al. 2004) as well as snacking (Zizza et al. 2001). Likewise, with regard to energy expenditure, research suggests that leisure time physical activity has decreased (Cole 2003). Given the high prevalence of obesity and the potential implications for so many other facets of life, the obesity epidemic is viewed as a critical public health concern worldwide. A basic understanding of thermodynamics makes disregarding the contribution of diet and physical activity impossible. Nonetheless, researchers have begun examining the condition as a result of many antecedents that influence either side of the energy balance equation (Eisenmann 2006; Keith et al. 2006).