Expert Claims Mona Lisa May Have Been Overweight with Thyroid Issues
Mona Lisa ‘probably overweight with a thyroid condition’, expert says
Mirror
Image: Mirror
A leading obesity expert suggests that the subject of Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, believed to be Lisa Gherardini, may have been overweight and suffered from hypothyroidism. Dr. Michael Yafi highlights how perceptions of beauty have shifted over time, noting that obesity was once seen as a sign of wealth and beauty, contrasting with today's standards of thinness.
- 01Dr. Michael Yafi presented his findings at the European Congress on Obesity in Istanbul, discussing how historical perceptions of obesity differ from modern views.
- 02The Mona Lisa, completed in the early 1500s, is believed to depict Lisa Gherardini, who may have had high cholesterol or hypothyroidism.
- 03Dr. Yafi noted that many famous figures, including composers like Bach and Handel, were also depicted as overweight, possibly indicating health issues like type 2 diabetes.
- 04Future art may reflect modern beauty standards influenced by weight loss medications, potentially leading to depictions of women with gaunt features known as 'GLP-1 face.'
- 05The Venus of Willendorf, a prehistoric figurine, exemplifies how obesity was historically associated with fertility and power.
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Dr. Michael Yafi, a paediatric endocrinologist at the University of Texas Houston, presented intriguing findings at the European Congress on Obesity in Istanbul, suggesting that the subject of Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting, the Mona Lisa, may have been overweight and possibly suffered from hypothyroidism. Yafi's research highlights a historical perspective where obesity was often viewed positively, particularly among women, contrasting sharply with contemporary ideals that favor thinness. He noted that the Mona Lisa, believed to be Lisa Gherardini, may have had high cholesterol or an underactive thyroid, conditions that could explain her depicted physique. Furthermore, Yafi pointed out that many historical figures, including composers Bach and Handel, were often portrayed as overweight, hinting at their potential health issues. Looking ahead, he speculated that future artworks might reflect modern beauty standards influenced by appetite-suppressing medications, leading to representations of women with gaunt features, termed 'GLP-1 face.' This evolving depiction of beauty can be traced back to ancient symbols of fertility, such as the Venus of Willendorf, which celebrated body positivity and abundance.
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