The Role of Weight Management on Metabolic Health and Well-Being: A Narrative Review Volume 57- Issue 5

Onur Oral¹*, Pramila Thapa², Pinar Tatlibal³ and Mümtaz Enser⁴

• ¹Ege University, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Turkey
• ²Life Skill Education Institutes/Yeti Health Science Academy, Nepal
• ³Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Necat Hepkon Sport Sciences, Turkey
• ⁴Dokuz Eylul University, Institute of Social Sciences, Department of Philosophy, Turkey

Received: July 17, 2024; Published: July 25, 2024

*Corresponding author: Onur Oral, University of Ege, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Department of Health Sciences and Sports, Izmir, Turkey

DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2024.57.009060

Abstract PDF

Background: This review study aims to highlight the significant influence of healthy weight management on a range of metabolic health outcomes. It would be beneficial to consider that achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight could be a primary focus for the prevention and management of metabolic disorders. In addition, this article seeks to explore the importance of metabolic health, the factors that influence it, the impact of unhealthy weight on metabolism, strategies for healthy weight management, the role of nutrition and physical activity in promoting metabolic health, and the potential of medical interventions for improving metabolic health.

Materials and Methods: In the search for scientific literature for this review, data from the US National Library of Medicine (PubMed), MEDLINE, and Sport Discus were used, and a range of terms were considered, including ‘overall health’, ‘metabolic health’, ‘sportive activity’, “weight management” and ‘proper nutrition’. Additionally, relevant literature has been sourced from the research of articles referenced in the data searches.

Results: The relationship between metabolic health and healthy weight management is complex and involves many factors. It is not uncommon for metabolic dysfunction to result in weight gain or difficulty losing weight due to imbalances in the body's energy regulation mechanisms. On the other hand, having too much body fat can make it more difficult to manage metabolic issues by increasing inflammation and insulin resistance.

Conclusion: It is becoming increasingly clear that the mechanisms underlying these benefits are multifaceted and involve complex interactions between adipose tissue, liver function, and overall metabolic regulation. It is often the case that successful weight management requires a combination of dietary modifications, increased physical activity, and in some cases, pharmacological or surgical interventions.

Keywords: Overall Health; Metabolic Health; Sportive Activity; Weight Management; Proper Nutrition

Abbreviations: BMR: Basal Metabolic Rate; NAFLD: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; HIIT: High-Intensity Interval Training

In its most basic sense, metabolic health can be understood as the optimal functioning of essential processes such as glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and blood pressure regulation. It would be fair to say that maintaining good metabolic health is crucial to survival, as it affects various aspects of an individual's overall well-being. It is becoming increasingly clear that the mechanisms underlying the metabolic benefits of healthy weight management are multifaceted and involve complex interactions between various physiological processes. It seems that weight loss and maintenance of a healthy body weight may contribute to a decrease in inflammatory markers, improvement in endothelial function, and increase in mitochondrial function. These positive interactions could potentially contribute to improved metabolic health (Heymsfield, et al. [1,2]). It is understood that many factors can influence metabolic health, including diet, exercise habits, genetics, and lifestyle choices. While a balanced diet rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals is beneficial for optimal metabolic function, it has been shown that excessive intake of processed foods rich in sugar and unhealthy fats may potentially disrupt metabolism (Slavin, et al. [3]). It has also been suggested that there may be a link between obesity and various metabolic disorders, such as dyslipidemia (abnormal lipid levels), hypertension (high blood pressure), and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) (Grundy, [4]).

In a systematic review by (Warren, et al. [5]), it was suggested that mindfulness-based interventions may be an effective approach to improving eating habits and supporting weight management. It has been found that mindful eating practices gently encourage individuals to focus on their hunger and fullness cues, which may help to prevent overeating and promote weight loss. A review of the literature on this topic suggests that there may be a relationship between healthy weight management through a combination of dietary changes, physical activity, and lifestyle interventions and metabolic health. Further research could help to confirm or deny this relationship. It is worth noting that healthy weight management has the potential to significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. This is thought to be achieved by improving key metabolic markers such as glucose homeostasis, lipid profiles, and blood pressure. As a result, healthcare professionals often recommend healthy weight management as a cornerstone of comprehensive metabolic health management. It would be greatly beneficial for them to consider prioritizing support for healthy weight management strategies. Several scientific studies have indicated that regular physical activity may contribute to increased insulin sensitivity and the maintenance of a healthy weight, which is closely linked to good metabolic health (Donnelly, et al. [6,7]). Some clinical studies also suggest that genetic predispositions may potentially contribute to an individual's susceptibility to certain metabolic disorders (Loos, et al. [8]).

It would be beneficial to consider a multifaceted approach to improving metabolic health and supporting healthy weight management. This could include adopting a balanced, nutrient-dense diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and in some cases, exploring medical interventions such as pharmacological treatments or bariatric surgery (Wadden, et al. [9]). It would be beneficial to consider this. It would be beneficial to consider evidence-based approaches to improving metabolic health and supporting healthy weight management goals, as these may contribute to success. It seems that adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and minimizing the intake of refined sugars and saturated fats, may positively affect glucose metabolism in patients with Type 2 diabetes (Thapa, et al. [10]). It has also been suggested that regular physical activity may help preserve muscle mass, which is a metabolically active tissue and may make it possible to burn calories even during rest (Donnelly, et al. [6]). It is becoming increasingly clear from many scientific studies that there is a significant relationship between physical activity and metabolic health. It is widely acknowledged that regular aerobic exercise plays an important role in weight management and metabolic health. It seems that regular physical activity may help to increase insulin sensitivity, improve lipid profiles, and aid weight loss (Houmard, et al. [11]). Observed that moderate-intensity aerobic exercise appeared to significantly enhance insulin sensitivity in overweight individuals.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring the potential of herbal supplements in improving metabolic health outcomes. While studies evaluating the effects of herbal supplements on metabolism have yielded promising results, it would be prudent to acknowledge that further research is needed to determine their effectiveness and safety (Ulbricht, et al. [12]).

A substantial body of scientific research has identified a significant amount of evidence suggesting that healthy weight management can have a profound impact on various metabolic health parameters. It would be remiss of us not to mention the numerous studies that have indicated that achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight can lead to significant improvements in metabolic markers such as blood sugar levels, insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and blood pressure. A study by (Wing, et al. [13]) suggests that maintaining lifestyle changes over time is an important factor in achieving long-term weight management success. It also highlights the value of sustainable, long-term interventions in producing lasting effects on weight and metabolic health. Among the approaches that have shown promise in promoting sustainable health benefits are those that include individualized dietary guidance, scientifically structured regular exercise programs, and ongoing behavioral support (Jakicic, et al. [14]). Conducted a review of the effectiveness of combined interventions and found that these combined interventions could potentially result in notable improvements in both weight control and metabolic markers. Given that combining dietary changes with regular physical activity is known to provide beneficial effects for weight management and metabolic health, it seems that an integrative approach could be a promising way to enhance the impact on weight loss and metabolic recovery (Leidy, et al. [15]). Discussed the potential role of protein in weight management and its possible impact on metabolic health.

Their findings suggest that diets high in protein may increase satiety, reduce overall calorie intake, and promote weight loss. It may be beneficial to view improving metabolic health by reducing fat mass and preserving lean muscle as an important health contribution to overall health. Studies showing the great impact of regular physical activity on weight control, metabolic health, and improving quality of life by affecting the general well-being of the individual are remarkable (Oral, et al. [16]). It seems that there is growing evidence that resistance training may help with weight management. This is thought to be because it increases muscle mass, which in turn increases the Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). In addition, there is a view that resistance training can improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. A meta-analysis by (Strasser, et al. [17]) suggests that resistance training may offer benefits for metabolic health in obese individuals. Similarly, High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), which combines short periods of intense exercise with periods of rest, is an effective approach for improving metabolic health and reducing body fat (Gillen, et al. [18]). Suggest that HIIT may play a role in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing abdominal fat, while also highlighting the potential benefits of regular physical exercise. Research suggests that carrying excess weight, particularly in the form of body fat, may have adverse effects on metabolic health. These effects can include insulin resistance, dyslipidemia (abnormal lipid levels), hypertension (high blood pressure), and inflammation in the body.

It is thought that excessive fat accumulation, especially around the abdominal organs, may pose a higher health risk for developing these conditions compared to subcutaneous fat storage (Grundy, [4]). Some research studies have indicated that maintaining a healthy weight may be an important factor in maintaining optimal metabolic function. There is also evidence that poor metabolic health may increase the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. It is therefore widely agreed that understanding and actively managing metabolic health are essential components of preventive healthcare strategies (Grundy, et al. [4,19]). It seems that there is some evidence to suggest that healthy weight management may have a positive effect on blood pressure regulation. It seems that achieving a healthy body weight may be associated with lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Some studies have even suggested that this could help to reduce the risk of hypertension and related cardiovascular complications (Neter, et al. [20,21]).

It is widely acknowledged that obesity and overweight are significant contributors to the development of various metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). It is therefore of paramount importance to maintain a healthy body weight to ensure optimal metabolic health and well-being. Many comprehensive research studies have been able to synthesize existing evidence regarding the impact of healthy weight management on various aspects of metabolic health. The findings from these comprehensive clinical studies suggest that maintaining a healthy body weight through evidence-based weight management strategies may have a significant impact on various aspects of metabolic health. It is worth noting that achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can potentially enhance insulin sensitivity, optimize lipid profiles, and reduce the risk of NAFLD and other metabolic disorders. It is therefore clear that healthy weight management plays an important role in maintaining metabolic health and preventing metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. It would be beneficial for future research to focus on the development and implementation of comprehensive, individualized approaches that combine dietary changes, physical activity, and behavioral strategies to achieve sustainable improvements in metabolic health. Such evidence-based practices could potentially contribute to the prevention of obesity and related metabolic diseases, thereby improving overall well-being.

We would like to express our special thanks to Evangelia STAVROPOULOU for her very successful contribution to the literature research process and her unique academic support in the publication during the process of this review article.

The author certifies that there is no conflict of interest with any financial organization regarding the material discussed in the manuscript.

The author certifies that there is no funding from any financial organization regarding the material discussed in the manuscript or contributions.

All the authors read and approved the final version of the manuscript.

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