As obesity rates continue to climb, researchers and medical professionals are working hard to identify and understand the factors that lead to weight gain. While there are no specific obesity causes, it is generally attributed to genetic, environmental, and behavioural factors. Reducing obesity prevalence will require a combined effort from individuals, healthcare professionals, educators, policymakers, businesses, and more. This article will discuss the numerous identified causes of obesity and how we can tackle this growing trend. Keep reading to learn more about the causes of obesity and what you can do to help prevent gaining excess weight in your own life.
A Short Note on Weight & BMI to Understand Obesity Causes
When discussing the obesity causes, it is crucial to differentiate between being overweight and being obese. Weight is a measurement used to estimate the amount of muscle, bone, fat, and other tissue in the body. Body mass index (BMI) is a measurement used to determine if a person’s weight is appropriate for their height. Most classification systems use BMI to determine if a person is at a healthy weight, underweight, overweight, or obese. BMI is not an exact measurement but a quick and easy way to screen for general weight categories. In general, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered a healthy weight. A BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight, and a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.
Genetics: One of the Obesity Causes
Some experts believe genetics play a significant role in the development of obesity. As a growing number of studies show a significant correlation between one’s genetic makeup and the likelihood of being overweight, it is increasingly evident that a person’s genetic makeup can predispose him or her to weight gain. Two primary genes are believed to be responsible for promoting weight gain: PPAR-alpha and FTO. The PPAR-alpha gene is responsible for processing fat and sugars in the body. More active PPAR-alpha genes have been shown to increase one’s risk of obesity. The FTO gene has been shown to increase one’s chances of being overweight by promoting increased appetite and decreased satiety. Researchers believe these genes are likely responsible for the development of obesity in many people, though their exact role is still being studied.
Environment as One of the Obesity Causes
As is the case with many other health conditions, the environment in which you live can have a significant impact on your weight and health. For instance, studies have shown that people who live in urban environments are more likely to be obese than those who live in more rural settings. One possible explanation for this correlation is that people who live in urban areas tend to walk less and have less access to green spaces than those who live in rural settings. This results in less overall physical activity, which can lead to weight gain. Other studies suggest that the types of foods typically found in urban settings are more likely to lead to weight gain than those found in rural areas. This may be a result of lower-cost, higher-calorie food options generally being more readily available in urban settings.
Food Choices as Major Obesity Causes
The foods we choose to eat play a significant role in the development of obesity. This may seem obvious, but researchers are still working to identify which foods are most responsible for weight gain. One study found that, of all food groups, high-fat dairy products were the most likely to lead to weight gain. Other studies suggest that a high intake of refined grains (like white bread and white rice) can lead to significant weight gain. However, the specific foods that cause weight gain in one study may not cause weight gain in another. This inconsistency may be due to variations in people’s genetic makeup, as well as variations in diet and lifestyle. The best thing you can do to prevent weight gain is to eat a balanced diet that contains a variety of minimally processed, nutrient-dense foods.
Behavioural Factors Can be Obesity Causes
Several behavioural factors have been shown to increase the likelihood of weight gain, including emotional stress, depression, and binge eating. Binge eating refers to consuming an unusually large amount of food in a short period of time. People who experience binge eating disorder (BED) typically consume thousands of calories in a single sitting and experience feelings of guilt, disgust, or shame after eating. BED has been shown to increase the likelihood of weight gain and obesity. Additionally, many people who are obese also suffer from a BED. Emotional stress and depression have also been shown to increase the likelihood of weight gain by altering hormone levels in the body.
Lack of Physical Activity in Obesity Causes
Physical activity can help you lose weight, but it can also help you prevent weight gain. Many people are not physically active enough, which can lead to weight gain. If you are not physically active, you may be at a higher risk for obesity. Research suggests that physical activity can help prevent weight gain by increasing metabolism, burning calories, and reducing appetite. People who are not physically active are more likely to gain weight than those who are active. This is likely because the average non-active person burns fewer calories than the average active person. Possible ways to increase your level of physical activity include taking a walk after dinner, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or doing household chores while listening to music.
Obesity Causes, Preventions, and Treatments at AKARA
With obesity rates continuing to rise, it is more important than ever to understand the factors that lead to weight gain. Genetics, environmental factors, and diet are just a few of the causes of obesity, and they can be prevented with healthy lifestyle choices. You can prevent weight gain by making healthy food choices, getting enough physical activity, and reducing emotional stress in your life. With these lifestyle changes, you can help reduce the risk of obesity and improve your overall health. In case the preventions did not work, and you are suffering from obesity, many would suggest you get a surgery done. Surgery comes with its own set of risks and downtime. Instead, you can go for a non-invasive treatment that not only helps you in managing your weight but also in overall wellness and strength. AKARA offers cutting-edge techniques to tackle the weight problem. Get detailed consultations with doctors and health experts and get your issues resolved without surgery. Take a weight loss challenge at AKARA and see for yourself. You can also get your skin and hair issues involved with our skin clinic, AAYNA, where we have non-invasive procedures like Ultherapy for face slimming and double-chin removal as well.
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