Obesity: The Impact on Host Systems Affecting Mobility and Navigation through the Environment

Obesity is known to affect a high percentage of both adults and children in developed countries. Individuals with obesity are at risk of developing a number of comorbidities, as well as metabolic syndrome, which can create a low-grade systemic inflammatory state that further exacerbates the risk of developing comorbidities. Two systems that are susceptible to obesity-related effects are the musculoskeletal system, which contributes to mobility via the bones, muscles, tendons, and joints, and the eye, which contributes to mobility via fidelity of navigation through the environment. Subsequently, the loss of integrity in these systems can lead to sedentary behaviour, inability to exercise, and increased risk of developing cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, loss of cognition, and falls. This review focusses on the impact of obesity on elements of the musculoskeletal system and the eye, with particular focus on the involvement of inflammation and how this may affect mobility and navigation. Finally, the use of prebiotics in altering the inflammatory state associated with obesity via the gut microbiome is discussed as one approach to address issues related to mobility and navigation.