Obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are currently two of the most complex challenges for global public health. Over one billion people worldwide are affected by obesity, a number that will continue to grow unless effective policies are implemented. Estimates indicate that by 2035, obesity will cost the global economy more than $4.32 trillion, or 3% of global GDP. This situation not only threatens public health but also economic stability, requiring an integrated and multidisciplinary response.  

Current policies, such as nutrient taxes and front-of-pack nutrition labels, like the Nutriscore, have proven to be ineffective. These are superficial solutions, often driven by ideological or commercial pressures, that ignore the complexity of the causes leading to obesity. The diversity of individuals and their dietary needs cannot be addressed with a one-size-fits-all approach that flattens personal differences. 

An integrated and sustainable model that can be adopted in different contexts is the lifestyle inspired by the Mediterranean diet. This is not just a diet, but a set of practices that promote nutrient-rich eating based on fresh and natural foods, along with an active lifestyle. Typical foods of the Mediterranean diet, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil, not only meet nutritional needs but also improve physical and mental well-being, reducing the risk of obesity and NCDs. Eating a balanced diet does not mean depriving oneself of the pleasure of food, but rather learning how to properly balance nutrients, favoring foods that have a positive impact on health. Therefore, it is essential to educate citizens, starting at a young age, about the importance of a varied and healthy diet. Only through education can we promote conscious choices and prevent the worsening of this global crisis.

Nutritional education is the cornerstone of the fight against obesity. Governments must invest in educational programs that start in schools, also involving families, the media, and content creators, so that new generations develop balanced and lasting habits. Empowering citizens also involves the use of technology. Tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) can personalize diets and effectively monitor health. These technologies allow dietary plans to be tailored to individuals’ specific needs, improving the management of chronic conditions related to obesity. 

To overcome the obesity crisis, a multidisciplinary approach is needed that embraces not only nutrition but also psychological, social, economic, and environmental aspects. Public policies must promote environments that encourage active lifestyles, with cities designed to foster movement and reduce environmental stress, ensuring easy access to a varied and healthy diet.

Another crucial step is recognizing obesity as a chronic disease that requires personalized treatment. The creation of multidisciplinary centers for obesity care, capable of providing continuous support to patients from diagnosis to treatment, could represent a turning point in managing this crisis.

Obesity and non-communicable diseases are not just a health issue, but also a social and economic challenge. To respond adequately, governments must adopt integrated policies that place the well-being of citizens at the center. Only through education and empowering consumers can balanced lifestyles be promoted, preventing the devastating consequences of obesity. The Mediterranean model can provide valuable guidance for building a longer-living, healthier, and more resilient society, capable of successfully facing future challenges. 

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