Modern David David by Michelangelo It takes a lot of money to buy all the food needed to gain so much weight. Is it gluttony? or It can actually be a disease. " The hormones leptin, insulin, oestrogens, androgens and growth hormone influence our appetite, metabolism and body fat distribution. People who are obese have hormone levels that encourage the accumulation of body fat." Obesity and hormones - Better Health Channel But: Why does it seem that there are many more overweight people than in the past? Maybe: -High fat and sweet fast food restaurants? -Larger portions? -Advertisement? -Stress? Any Ideas?