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Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology

Obesity

Evidence-informed definition Updated September 21, 2026 How to cite this entry

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Definition and context

Obesity is a chronic health condition characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat that can negatively affect physical and psychological health. It is influenced by a complex interaction of biological, behavioral, dietary, psychological, social, and environmental factors.

Author and reviewer

Editorial responsibility
Written by Aasma Kausar, Msc Applied Psychology
Reviewed by CNP Encyclopedia Editorial Board
Evidence base

References and further reading

  1. World Health Organization. Obesity and overweight. December 8, 2025. View source
  2. World Health Organization. Obesity. WHO Health Topics. View source
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How to cite this entry

CNP (2026). Obesity. In CNP Encyclopedia Editorial Board (Eds.), Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology. The Center for Nutritional Psychology.

https://www.nutritional-psychology.org.
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