Obesity, characterized by an excess accumulation of body fat relative to lean body mass, is a chronic disease resulting from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. It has become a significant global health concern, with prevalence nearly doubling between 1980 and 2008, affecting over half a billion adults worldwide. The primary cause of obesity is excessive caloric consumption, especially from carbohydrates and fats, exceeding the body’s energy needs. Increased intake of carbohydrate-rich foods, fat-dense products, and carbonated beverages has contributed to the rising incidence of obesity in recent years. The distribution and amount of body fat are closely linked to morbidity and mortality from obesity-related diseases. Treatment strategies typically aim to reduce energy intake below energy expenditure to promote weight loss. Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) approaches, widely used especially in countries like China, involve additional nutrient intake and other natural therapies as part of obesity management. Numerous studies worldwide have investigated the effectiveness of CAM in obesity treatment, yielding varied results. CAM therapies are often preferred due to their lower cost compared to conventional treatments; however, the potential adverse effects of these methods need broader public awareness and cautionary communication. This review highlights the growing role of CAM in obesity treatment and underscores the importance of evaluating both benefits and risks to ensure safe and effective patient care.
Emre Kaan Ahmet Yılmaz (Wed,) studied this question.