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Network study of the nutritional patterns, the metabolic and the psychological status among overweight-obese young adults
The classification of severely overweight individuals as ‘metabolically unhealthy obese’ (MUO) versus ‘metabolically healthy obese’ (MHO) hinges on the presence or absence of cardio-metabolic risk factors. This research utilizes network analysis to elucidate the interconnections among nutritional dietary patterns, physical metrics, and psychological variables in a sample of 188 young overweight or obese adults (aged 18 to 25 years). The findings reveal that in the MHO group, stress functions as a central node, with robust connections to psychological features (depression and anxiety), physical measures (body mass index, triacylglycerol, hypertension, and glucose), and a dietary pattern characterized by carbohydrate, fat, and sodium intake. Conversely, in the MUO group, the predominant nutritional pattern is characterized by elevated consumption of fats and sodium, with cholesterol levels emerging as a significant bridge node linked to other dietary habits and health variables. These insights underscore the importance of identifying influential nodes to inform targeted treatment strategies. A dual approach that integrates traditional interventions (diet modification, physical activity, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery) with psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral strategies focusing on stress management and problem-solving, is particularly vital for MHO patients. [NPID: obesity, stress, depression, anxiety]
Year: 2025
