According to the U.S. Surgeon General, 300,000 Americans die every year because of obesity. What’s more, obesity is associated with other health complications like heart disease, stroke, some types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, breathing problems, and psychological disorders.
We don’t fully understand all of the causes of being severely overweight. And it’s rare that any one factor is the sole reason for morbid obesity. However, we do know that there are many factors that contribute to the causes of obesity. These include family history (genetics), lifestyle behavior and cultural environment.
Family History
There is an identified link between certain genes contributing to obesity. It is possible that people have a genetic tendency to gain weight and store excessive fat. However, even people without this genetic inclination can become obese.
Lifestyle Behavior
An inactive lifestyle with little or no physical activity can contribute to weight gain and storing of fat. This lifestyle often results in unhealthy eating habits and high caloric intake. In addition, it can contribute to a variety of other health conditions such as heart disease. By modifying your lifestyle behavior to include exercise and healthy eating habits, improvements can be achieved.
Cultural Environment
People’s habits are often influenced by their cultural environment. This includes home, work and social settings. When you immerse yourself in an environment that promotes nutrition, physical activity and an active social life, it can help in weight control.
