ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the problems associated with chronic positive energy balance, obesity. In some instances, the location of where genetic testing is available is given. A decrease in energy expenditure ensures a positive energy balance that may well result in excess body fatness. However, simply restricting one's food intake does not cure the problem; it merely treats the result of the positive energy balance excess body fat. Among the pharmaceutical products, we have drugs that are thermogenic. The definition of overweight, obesity, and extreme obesity is indicated by the individual’s body mass index. Although simple measures of body weight and waist and hip circumference can suggest that the individual is overweight or obese, there are exceptions to these measures. The determination of the size of the fat store in large animals, particularly humans, is difficult. In small animals such as the mouse and the rat, direct measurement is possible.
