overnutrition

Overnutrition is a form of malnutrition resulting from consuming more nutrients and calories than the body needs, leading to excess body fat and associated health risks. It encompasses prolonged energy excess (macronutrients) as well as excessive intake of certain vitamins or minerals (micronutrients). It is distinct from undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.

Most commonly, overnutrition results from chronic energy surplus due to high-calorie, nutrient-dense foods, large portion sizes, and sedentary lifestyles. Socioeconomic and environmental factors, urbanization, globalization of the food supply, marketing of ultra-processed foods, and genetic predispositions contribute. Early-life influences and a history of rapid weight gain can increase risk.

Long-term overnutrition increases risk of obesity and metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It also raises risk for cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. In some contexts, over-supplementation with vitamins or minerals can cause toxicity, especially with fat-soluble vitamins or minerals like iron or vitamin A; but micronutrient excess is less common than caloric overnutrition.

Assessment uses body mass index, waist circumference, body composition, and metabolic markers. Public health metrics track prevalence. Management emphasizes energy balance, dietary modification focusing on nutrient-dense foods, portion control, physical activity, and treatment of comorbidities. Pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery may be considered for severe obesity; treatment plans should be personalized.

Prevention includes promoting healthy eating patterns, limiting ultra-processed foods, nutrition education, supportive environments, and policy measures like taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages, labeling, and restricting marketing to children.