Obesity is becoming an epidemic in the United States and across the world. With the increase of convenience foods, as well as an increase in sedentary lifestyles, more and more people are finding it harder to get and stay healthy and avoid obesity.
Causes of Obesity
There are many factors that contribute to obesity. Genetics can play a role, but there are specific environmental influences that can lead to obesity.
One of the most common causes of obesity is a poor diet. Eating highly processed, high-fat foods with poor nutritional content can lead to weight gain. These foods include fast food, candy, soda, and other sweets. Many people find they can enjoy these foods as treats in moderation, but the more of these kinds of foods you eat, the more you put yourself at risk for obesity.
Lack of regular exercise may also cause obesity. People who lead a sedentary lifestyle are also at high risk for obesity, because they do not burn the calories they consume each day. When people lead a sedentary lifestyle in combination with eating a poor diet, many health issues emerge.
Effects of Obesity
There are many negative effects of obesity on the body and mind. Poor diet can lead to poor health; fatty foods cause high cholesterol, heart attacks, and heart disease. Many people struggling with obesity also struggle with conditions such as sleep apnea and diabetes. Increased fatigue, poor sleep, and other conditions can accompany obesity.
Obesity has a negative effect on the mind. People who are obese often struggle with depression and anxiety. This may be due, in part, to feelings about themselves, but may also be attributed to the physical effects of obesity. For example, people who experience increased fatigue due to their weight often lack the energy to engage in activities they enjoy, which leads to depression.
Battling Obesity
The good news is that there are solutions for battling obesity. Even when genetics is a factor in your weight, you can take an active role in your health and make choices that help you become much healthier. Eating a healthy, balanced diet with few processed foods is a good start. Adding regular exercise and activity to your daily routine is another way to help your body get to its healthy weight and fitness level. It may seem like a big task, but by making small changes one at a time, you can work on creating healthy habits that will help you reach your goals.
