HOW REFINED CARBOHYDRATES FUEL OBESITY AND METABOLIC DISORDERS TODAY

Abstract

The world today has seen a rapid increase in pathologies including obesity and metabolic disorders like diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, metabolic syndrome, cancer etc. These afflictions can be associated with changing lifestyle choices, dietary habits and economic conditions of the world. The dietary shift to refined and readily available carbohydrates is associated with an increased disease burden in the long run. This review article explores the multifaceted contribution of high glycemic, ultra processed foods consumption in positive energy balance which leads to weight gain by disrupting metabolic pathways which in turn progresses into chronic metabolic conditions by virtue of obesity-induced insulin resistance and oxidative stress. We first identify the primary sources of refined carbohydrates found in Asian, Western and European cuisine which shows that refined sugar and ultra processed foods (UPFs) make up the major portion of refined carbohydrate diet. This review paper discusses how regular consumption of such food acts as metabolic boosters leading to postprandial glucose surges causing hyperinsulinemia, which gradually disrupts insulin sensitivity promoting obesity and metabolic disorders. This paper also presents evidence that obesity has been linked with refined carbohydrate consumption due to its effects like insulin resistance, visceral fat accumulation, neurochemical imbalances impacting dopamine and reward systems followed by an analysis of the link between postprandial glucose spike after carbohydrate consumption and exhaustion of the β-cells of the pancreas which results in type 2 diabetes mellitus. We also review how insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and chronic inflammation increase the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases attributable to excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates. By highlighting the major public health concerns, this paper articulates dietary strategies that emphasize improving carbohydrate quality and replacing refined carbohydrates with whole grains, high fiber and protein diets which enhance satiety and mitigate the risk of obesity and metabolic dysfunctions.