Rising BMI Can Equal Rising Chronic Disease

An Australian study published in the May issue of The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism shows there may be a link between obesity and infertility. A medical weight loss program is often considered as a way to increase fertility and reduce the severity of chronic diseases. Excess abdominal fat may have an effect on fertility because obesity can cause changes in the tissue surrounding ovaries and the fluid that surrounds the eggs. The development of the egg in the ovary is influenced by its surroundings, namely the tissue and fluids. These changes could make a difference in how effective the egg can be in being fertilized based on these environmental changes.

The study found that as the subjects’ Body Mass Index (BMI) rose, the presence of compounds found in people suffering from cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes also increased. These compounds include insulin, lactate, triglycerides, and C-reactive proteins. These chronic diseases also can be combated through medical weight loss to reduce BMI.

As the study subjects’ BMI rose there was also a decrease in sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). High levels of this hormone are associated with pregnancy and fertilization and low levels are associated with hypothyroidism, PCOS, and diabetes – all diseases linked to issues with fertility. While the study’s findings are considered preliminary, there will be follow up studies to find a more direct cause and effect relationship between excess abdominal fat and potential fertility issues that may arise as a direct result of the hormonal changes that directly affect fertility.