Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat that increases the risk of other health problems. The most common tool for determining if someone is obese is body mass index (BMI), which measures a person's weight in relation to their height. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. Obesity puts people at risk for heart disease, diabetes, joint problems, and certain cancers. So what causes obesity? Ultimately, it boils down to consuming more calories than you burn through activity and normal bodily functions. However, there are many complex factors that can promote weight gain:
- Genetics - Some people inherit a tendency to gain weight more easily.
- Lifestyle - Lack of physical activity and unhealthy eating patterns are major culprits. This includes diets high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
- Medical problems - Conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease can slow metabolism and cause weight gain.
- Medications - Certain drugs used to treat mood disorders, diabetes, seizures, high blood pressure, and arthritis can cause weight gain.
- Psychological factors - Depression, emotional eating, and poor body image can make weight loss more difficult.
- Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Choosing lean protein sources
- Exercising regularly - even just 30 minutes per day
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing stress