You’re sitting on the couch watching TV, pouring yourself some nachos and guacamole, and you’re wondering, “am I too fat?”, “do I eat too much?”, “what’s causing me to gain weight so easily?” Or it could be that you’re in front of your computer eating junk food, and you still have no answers as to why you can’t seem to lose weight.
Too much sugar, fat, and processed foods in your diet and too little exercise is often the cause of obesity. But it’s rarely that simple. There are numerous other causes of obesity, at both the psychological and physiological levels.
Keep reading to learn all about the causes of obesity. Discover why you’re gaining weight and what solutions you can use to drop some fat.
Unhealthy Eating Habits
Overeating on high-calorie, high-fat foods and not getting regular exercise leads to increased body fat. Eating these unhealthy foods can lead to not only obesity but also other health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. This page for eating disorder treatment can help in identifying the right food to eat.
Comfort food, sugary treats, processed items, and fast food are the most commonly consumed items contributing to obesity. Snacking can also be a problem, with people consuming more calories than required. Too much saturated fat, sugar, and sodium can lead to obesity as well when consumed in large amounts.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyle can contribute to weight gain and obesity by causing a decrease in metabolism. Sitting for extended periods of time can lead to an overall decrease in physical activity, which can cause a decrease in the body’s ability to regulate energy and burn calories. Sitting in one place for long periods of time can also contribute to an increase of cortisol and insulin in the body, which can lead to greater fat storage and weight gain.
Stress and Poor Mental Health
Stressful situations can lead to an increased appetite, while ongoing psychological distress can lead to unchecked consumption of food. Additionally, managing depression, in particular, may become difficult if a person is feeling overwhelmed by everyday life. This could lead to unhealthy behaviors and the avoidance of healthy meals. Eating processed and sugary foods is often a coping mechanism for anxiety and depression.
Medications and Pharmaceuticals
Medications and pharmaceuticals are not often thought of as a cause of obesity, but based on research, it also contributes to weight gain. Statin drugs and anti-depressants are also related to increase in body weight. Patients should always consult with their doctor for obesity help and about possible side effects of their medication. By doing this, you can reduce the risk of weight gain.
The Causes of Obesity to Prevent
To avoid obesity the causes of obesity, one should develop a healthy lifestyle and ensure it is maintained over time. This includes substituting unhealthy foods for healthier alternatives, exercising regularly, and creating reasonable goals.
With the right guidance and dedication, a healthy, balanced lifestyle is achievable. To find a healthier you, start today!
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