Story at-a-glance

• Obesity is not just about weight — it's a chronic condition that impacts organ function and metabolic health, requiring more precise diagnostic tools than body mass index (BMI) alone
• Many people with a normal BMI still suffer from severe metabolic dysfunction due to hidden fat accumulation
• Researchers are now pushing for definitions of "preclinical" and "clinical" obesity. Clinical obesity refers to instances where excess fat is actively harming organs or limiting daily function
• Effective strategies that will help address obesity include eliminating vegetable oils, improving insulin sensitivity with the right carbohydrates and fixing micronutrient deficiencies
• Strength training and walking help restore metabolic function by improving mitochondrial efficiency, reducing inflammation and shifting your body's energy balance toward muscle instead of fat storage