Two Surprising Reasons That May Be Contributing to the Obesity Epidemic: Too Much Salt, Not Enough Water

The role of dehydration and excessive salt consumption is largely underestimated in the development of high blood pressure and obesity. BAZA Production/Shutterstock

Scientific studies and media coverage are rife with warnings on how sugar, carbohydrates, saturated fat, and lack of exercise contribute to obesity. And tens of millions of Americans are still overweight or obese, in large part because of the classic Western diet and lifestyle.

As an educator, researcher, and professor of medicine, I have spent more than 20 years investigating the causes of obesity, as well as related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease.