Causes And Risk Factors Of Obesity

Contrary to popular belief, obesity is not solely caused by consuming more calories than you burn throughout the day; in fact, multiple factors can make you more susceptible to gaining weight. 

Whether you engage in emotional eating, enjoy food, or have a genetic predisposition to gaining weight, the health risks are the same. Today, we will discuss the causes and the dangers of obesity, and how you can manage it.

Let’s jump in!

What Is Obesity

Obesity is a medical condition characterised by excessive accumulation of body fat. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), obesity is typically measured using the Body Mass Index (BMI), with a BMI of 30 or higher considered obese.

Globally, more than a billion people are living with obesity, including approximately 880 million adults and 159 million children. In the UK, it is estimated that about 18.8 million people are obese.

Currently, Nauru ranks as the country with the highest obesity rates, with roughly 61% of the adult population being obese. Ethiopia ranks as the country with the lowest obesity rates, while the UK ranks 86th among the most obese countries in the world.

Understanding The Roots Of Obesity

Genetics

Genetic factors play a significant role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to obesity. Studies have shown that obesity often runs in families, indicating that genetic predisposition can influence body weight. Specific genes can affect how the body processes food and stores fat. Is it fair? Probably not, but unfortunately, that is how it is.

Dietary Habits

The consumption of high-calorie, nutrient-poor foods is a major contributor to obesity. Think of fast food and lack of exercise. The effects are bound to show eventually. Diets high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats lead to excessive calorie intake. Sadly, the availability and marketing of fast food and sugary drinks have made unhealthy eating habits more common among both adults and children.

Physical Inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle is a critical factor in the development of obesity. Modern conveniences, such as cars, elevators, and remote controls; along with long hours spent sitting at desks or in front of screens, reduce the physical activity people engage in daily.

Environmental Factors

Environmental influences, including urbanisation, can contribute to obesity. Limited access to safe recreational areas and healthy food options in certain communities makes it challenging for individuals to maintain a healthy weight.

Psychological Factors

Emotional and psychological factors, such as stress, depression, and anxiety, can also lead to overeating and weight gain. Food is often used as a coping mechanism, leading to a cycle of weight gain and mental health issues.

Alcoholism

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to weight gain, as alcoholic drinks are calorie-dense, impair fat metabolism, and promote fat storage, especially around the abdomen. Alcohol also stimulates appetite, often leading to overeating or making poor food choices high in calories, fats, or sugars.

The Toll Of Obesity On Your Health

Dangers of obesity

Obesity is associated with numerous health risks, including cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and hypertension, due to the strain excess weight places on the heart and blood vessels. Type 2 diabetes is also closely linked to obesity, as adipose tissue can lead to insulin resistance. Certain cancers, including colon, breast (postmenopausal), endometrial, and kidney cancers, are more prevalent among obese individuals. Respiratory conditions like sleep apnea and asthma can worsen with obesity, as can musculoskeletal problems such as osteoarthritis from increased joint strain. 

Additionally, obesity is associated with gastrointestinal issues like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and gallbladder disease. Obesity can also lead to psychological issues such as low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. Social stigma and discrimination against obese individuals can exacerbate these mental health challenges, leading to a vicious cycle of emotional eating and further weight gain.

Effective Ways To Help Control Your Weight

  • Dietary Changes: Adopting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is crucial for managing obesity. Reducing the intake of high-calorie foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, while increasing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, can help achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is essential for weight management. Incorporating at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise, such as running, per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities, can help burn calories and improve overall health.
  • Behavioural Therapy: Behavioural interventions, including counselling and support groups, can assist individuals in developing healthier eating and activity habits. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help address the emotional and psychological factors contributing to obesity.
  • Medical Interventions: In some cases, medical interventions may be necessary to manage obesity. Prescription medications can help reduce appetite or increase feelings of fullness. Bariatric surgery, which includes procedures such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, can be an option for individuals with severe obesity who have not responded to other treatments. All of these need to be thoroughly discussed with a qualified healthcare professional before proceeding. 
  • Community Initiatives: Addressing obesity requires a collective effort from individuals and communities. Creating environments that promote physical activity and access to healthy foods is essential. Policies that regulate food marketing, improve food labelling, and support public health campaigns can help combat obesity at a population level.

Endnotes

Obesity is a pressing global health issue with far-reaching consequences. Understanding its causes, from genetics and dietary habits to environmental and psychological factors, is crucial for developing effective prevention and management strategies. 

Losing weight and managing your weight takes a lot of commitment and determination. Remember, it always seems impossible until it is done. Keep your eye on the prize, because we are all rooting for you!

               

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