Everything You Need to Know About Obesity.
What is Obesity
A bodily mass index (BMI) of 25 or above is the standard definition of obesity. Weight (in kilograms) divided by height (in meters squared) yields a person’s BMI. While it is a commonly used metric to categorize weight status, in some populations—like athletes and elderly adults—it may not adequately reflect body composition.
Factors Associated with Obesity
- Heredity and Genetics
Studies have indicated that heredity is a major factor in obesity. According to research by Loos et al. (2008), 40–70% of the variation in body mass index (BMI) across people may be attributed to hereditary variables. Increased vulnerability to weight gain and obesity has been associated with certain gene variations.
- Poor Diet
Obesity is mostly caused by dietary choices. Gaining weight can result from consuming too many calories, especially from processed meals, fast food, and sugar-filled beverages. greater intake of added sugars, especially from sugar-sweetened drinks, was linked to a greater risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, according to research by Malik et al. (2006).
- Lack of Exercise
One other important element that greatly contributes to obesity is inactivity. Because they need less energy to maintain, sedentary lifestyles might result in weight gain. A 2004 research by Sjöström et al. found that obesity is one of the main causes of physical inactivity, which accounts for around 6% of all deaths worldwide.
- Socioeconomic Elements
Obesity rates can be influenced by socioeconomic variables, such as low levels of education and money. Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds frequently have less access to safe spaces for physical activity, nutritious food alternatives, and medical services. According to a 2009 study by Brownson et al., obesity prevalence is influenced by socioeconomic position, with lower incomes and education levels being associated with greater obesity rates.
- Aspects of Psychology
Obesity can be attributed to psychological and emotional causes, including sadness, stress, and binge eating. While depression and binge eating disorders can cause excessive calorie intake, stress can cause overeating and poor food choices. According to a 1996 study by Stunkard et al., those who suffer from binge eating disorder are more likely to be fat than people who do not.
Summary
A complex health problem, obesity is impacted by environmental, behavioral, genetic, and psychological factors. It is essential to comprehend these contributing elements in order to create preventative and intervention methods that work. Promoting healthy lifestyle choices, expanding access to nutrient-dense food and secure areas for physical exercise, and addressing the psychological and social factors that contribute to obesity are all critical as research into the disease progresses.
References:
- Loos, R. J., Bouchard, C., & Stunkard, A. J. (2008). Genetic influences on body weight regulation. Obesity Reviews, 9(2), 143-152.
- Malik, V. S., Popkin, B. M., & Bray, G. A. (2006). Sugar-sweetened beverages, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease risk. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 83(3), 543-552.
- Sjöström, M., Ingelsson, E., Welin, L., & Barker, P. (2004). Physical inactivity as a major risk factor for mortality: a pooled study of 11 prospective cohorts. Lancet, 363(9410), 955-962.
