What are the causes of obesity?

There are many reasons an individual may become obese. Some factors may be more difficult to overcome than others. In most cases, individuals can make decisions to improve upon their health and lower the risks associated with obesity.

Childhood eating habits may be one cause of obesity. Those who are obese as children are much more likely to be obese as adults. This is because they have already established habits of eating large quantities of high calorie foods. Habits formed during childhood can be challenging to break and adults may find it difficult to alter the way they eat.

Children also learn eating habits from their parents. Those who had obese parents or parents who consistently overate, may find that they too are overeaters. Children learn what is and is not appropriate from the adults they interact with, this means that their parents have the largest effect on their behaviour.

Technology can also be a factor in obesity. Many people turn to electronics for entertainment instead of physical activity. Games, like football and tennis, are now available in electronic formats. Additionally, cars are used as the primary mode of transportation. People no longer walk to their destinations. Even within buildings, elevators and escalators are the primary mode of transportation. Many people get little to no physical exercise on a daily basis. This results in storing, rather than burning, calories.

Genetics also play a role in obesity. Some people will exercise all their life and remain overweight. Others will eat high calorie foods, never lift a finger, and remain thin. It is not yet clear what factors contribute to these natural weight differences. Because genetics cannot be controlled, those with weight problems are encouraged to focus on diet and exercise, the two most common causes of obesity.

Those who are obese should not fall back on excuses of genetics. For the majority of people, poor diet and a lack of exercise are the sole culprit of their weight gain.

Consequently, weight loss surgery should not be viewed as an easy weight loss solution. The procedures must be coupled with a complete change in lifestyle. Patients must be willing to work alongside the weight loss solutions, which will include diet and exercise. Many people believe weight loss surgeries will be an instant fix to their weight problems. This line of thinking can result in unsuccessful weight loss procedures. Patients must understand that they will be working to improve their weight and the procedures are simply aids in reaching their weight loss goals.