Understanding Obesity

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/understanding-obesity

Introduction

### Course Review: Understanding Obesity on Coursera In today's world, obesity is a pressing public health issue that affects millions of individuals globally. The "Understanding Obesity" course on Coursera offers a comprehensive exploration into the complexities surrounding this condition, focusing on both scientific knowledge and personal reflection. If you’re seeking to deepen your understanding of obesity, its causes, and its implications, this course is a highly recommended option. #### Overview "Understanding Obesity" is designed to delve into the factual landscape of obesity while dispelling commonly held misconceptions. The course emphasizes the intricate physiological and psychological mechanisms that influence appetite and body weight, along with the biological and environmental factors that contribute to weight gain. By encouraging students to reflect on their own preconceptions, the course fosters a more nuanced understanding of obesity beyond mere diet and exercise. #### Course Structure The course is structured across four weeks, each focusing on vital aspects of obesity: 1. **Week 1: What We Know, and How We Know It** - This introductory week sets the foundation by discussing existing knowledge about diet, appetite, and obesity. One of the highlights is the emphasis on acknowledging gaps in our understanding, encouraging a critical view of commonly accepted beliefs. 2. **Week 2: Physiology and Stress** - Here, participants will explore the physiological factors contributing to obesity—including the impact of stress and early-life experiences on food choices. An optional assignment allows participants to examine barriers to healthy eating, paving the way for personal insights and practice on the course material. 3. **Week 3: Psychology and Behaviour** - This week shifts focus to the psychological dimensions of appetite control. It addresses how portion sizes and food insecurity influence eating behaviors, prompting reflections on one's own habits and the socio-economic realities surrounding food choices. 4. **Week 4: Consolidation and Discussion** - The final week consolidates learning through quizzes and peer-reviewed assignments. The active discussion and review of the scientific method reinforce students’ comprehension and application of the concepts discussed throughout the course. #### Delivery Format The course utilizes a blend of learning materials including engaging videos, audio-only MOOCcasts, and optional readings. This variety caters to different learning styles, making it easier for everyone to absorb complex information effectively. The interactive nature of assignments encourages deeper engagement, promoting a proactive learning atmosphere. #### Personal Reflection and Application One of the unique strengths of this course is its emphasis on reflective learning. Participants are given the opportunity to rethink their assumptions about obesity, considering factors they might not have previously deemed significant. By examining personal biases and societal stereotypes about body weight, students are empowered to approach the subject with greater empathy and understanding—qualities that are crucial in today’s discourse on health and wellness. #### Final Recommendation "Understanding Obesity" is an invaluable course for anyone interested in public health, nutrition, psychology, or personal development. Whether you are a student, a healthcare professional, or simply an informed individual wanting to understand obesity better, this course provides crucial insights and fosters a compassionate approach towards those struggling with weight management. The course offers flexibility, self-paced learning, and the opportunity to engage with a global community of learners. The reflections and discussions prompted by the course will not only enhance your knowledge but also shape a more inclusive perspective on obesity as an important health issue. Enrolling in "Understanding Obesity" is a step towards a well-rounded understanding of a multifaceted topic, giving you the tools to engage thoughtfully with the challenges associated with obesity in today’s society. If you seek a thorough, science-backed understanding of this pressing issue, I highly recommend you take this course on Coursera.

Syllabus

Week 1: What we know, and how we know it.

This week we'll discuss what we know about diet, appetite and obesity. But, and perhaps more importantly, we'll point out the gaps in our knowledge.

This week we discuss some aspects of the physiology of obesity and learn how so-called "food addiction", stress and early-life experience can affect our eating choices. Included is an optional assignment where you can explore barriers to healthy eating. This assignment is not graded but does use the same interface as the Week 4 assessment. As such, you may find it useful to use it as practice for the "real thing".

This week we discuss some aspects of the psychology of appetite control and learn how portion sizes and food insecurity might affect our behaviours.

This week online material will be posted ad hoc as we consolidate and discuss what we've already learned. This week's main tasks are a quiz on the scientific method and the peer-reviewed assignment. Please note you can attempt the Week 4 quiz only once.