The Many Causes of Obesity
Health experts have performed numerous studies to determine the various causes of obesity. Being aware of these factors can help people to be more conscious of their own health and the risk factors they are creating with their every day habits.
Here are some of the major causes of obesity:
- a high-fat diet
- a diet containing too many simple sugars, such as white sugar, white flour or high-fructose corn syrup, or pre-processed foods which are often high in both sugar and fat
- over-eating
- irregular eating habits, as well as eating in the evening, during less active hours
- drinking alcohol
- a diet lacking required vitamins and minerals
- sedentary lifestyle
- using food as an emotional crutch
Specialized health studies have revealed some unanticipated causes of obesity or excessive body weight:
- hypothyroidism, which decreases food metabolism, appetite loss and weight gain
- lack of essential fatty acids, or good fats in the diet, which can cause cravings for fatty food and impact metabolism rates
- food sensitivity, which can cause the release of certain hormones that increase fluid retention and weight gain
- cushing’s syndrome, which produces excess cortisol hormone and results in the appearance of a rounded ‘moon face’ or ‘buffalo hump’
- use of prescription drugs such as steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antidepressants, diabetic medications, hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives containing estrogen
- prior kidney, heart or liver disease causing fluid retention and weight gain
- organ enlargement, such as from an ovarian cyst, or obstruction of lymph fluid
- blood sugar imbalance and the resulting insulin response
- emotional eating (or binge eating) in response to stress or depression affecting eating habits and causing weight gain
While some causes of obesity are more difficult to control, all can be managed through diet, exercise and the help of your doctor. If you are concerned about your risk of obesity, see your doctor.