Dr. Megi Lekbello discusses obesity and weight maintenance challenges

Endocrinologist Dr. Megi Lekbello has addressed the complexities of obesity and weight management, highlighting the impact of an 'obesogenic environment.' She notes that modern society is surrounded by highly processed, inexpensive, and easily accessible foods, which are often promoted through constant advertising. This environment, combined with the phenomenon of 'food noise'—the persistent mental preoccupation with food—makes controlling consumption difficult for many.

Dr. Lekbello emphasized that true success in treating obesity is not merely losing weight, but maintaining that weight long-term. She noted that only about 5% of people who attempt to lose weight succeed in keeping it off. This difficulty is driven by biological mechanisms; when caloric intake is reduced, the body perceives an alarm state, prompting the brain to increase hunger signals and focus more intensely on food to ensure energy storage for survival.