In this sweeping exploration of the relatively recent obesity epidemic,
Michael L. Power and Jay Schulkin probe evolutionary biology, history,
physiology, and medical science to uncover the causes of our growing
girth. The unexpected answer? Our own evolutionary success.
For most of the past few million years, our evolutionary ancestors'
survival depended on being able to consume as much as possible when food
was available and to store the excess energy for periods when it was
scarce. In the developed world today, high-calorie foods are readily
obtainable, yet the propensity to store fat is part of our species'
heritage, leaving an increasing number of the world's people vulnerable
to obesity. In an environment of abundant food, we are anatomically,
physiologically, metabolically, and behaviorally programmed in a way
that makes it difficult for us to avoid gaining weight.
Power and Schulkin's engagingly argued book draws on popular examples
and sound science to explain our expanding waistlines and to discuss the
consequences of being overweight for different demographic groups. They
review the various studies of human and animal fat use and storage,
including those that examine fat deposition and metabolism in men and
women; chronicle cultural differences in food procurement, preparation,
and consumption; and consider the influence of sedentary occupations and
lifestyles.
A compelling and comprehensive examination of the causes and
consequences of the obesity epidemic, The Evolution of Obesity offers
fascinating insights into the question, Why are we getting fatter?
