Causes of Obesity

Causes of Obesity

Obesity has become a global epidemic and a major problem within today’s society. In the United States alone, more than two-thirds are obese. Obesity not only causes severe health risks that may eventually turn debilitating, but it lowers the quality of life due to overeating, the lack of physical activity, and genetic makeup. The main cause of obesity is over-eating. When the intake of calories exceed the daily recommended amount, along with a diet that is high in fat (i.e. fast, fried, and sweet foods), it’s a lot easier for the body’s tissue to store the extra fat. The second main cause is lack of any type of physical activity. A sedentary lifestyle with little to no exercise is not healthy whatsoever. Aside from it being a contributing factor for obesity, it also causes other potential health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Physical activity is very important and should be incorporated into daily life as it helps control weight gain and reduces body fat. A third common causative factor is genetics. Someone whose parents are both obese has a higher chance of being overweight or developing obesity themselves. Because of certain hormones the body may have the inability to regulate fat properly, the amount of fat that the body stores, and where on the body extra fat is carried. Obesity is preventable! To avoid any potential health issues that come with the condition a complete lifestyle change is a must. When following a healthy diet and a physically active regiment, an individual will not only feel better, but the risk of premature death will be reduced. At the end of the day, we are what we eat (Ludwig Feuerbach).