Understanding Obesity: Key Causes, Risk Factors and Possible Solutions: Evan Bass Men’s Clinic

With the increasing number of obese individuals, obesity has become a significant health concern on a global scale. Studies reveal that if the prevailing trend continues, around 38% of individuals will be overweight and around 20% will be obese by 2030.

According to Evan Bass Men’s Clinic, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), a person with a BMI between 25.0 and 29.9 is considered overweight, while obesity is a more serious condition, signifying a BMI greater than 30.0. Obesity increases the risk of chronic health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoarthritis, depression, and some cancers. Knowing the primary causes can be helpful to lessen the risks of suffering from associated health complications.

Genetic Factors

Genetic factors are acknowledged as the paramount reason that prompts obesity. Parents who are obese are more likely to have children who are obese compared to lean parents. Other than genetic cause, lifestyle habits, diet habits, activity levels, and the role of hormones typically influence weight gain.

The Role of Diet

Diet is possibly one of the major factors leading to obesity. Intake of an excessive number of processed foods containing fat and sugar stimulates the brain to release a hormone that generates pleasure. This translates into cravings for calorie-dense foods with minimal nutrients, eventually leading to unhealthy weight gain.

To avoid obesity, individuals are recommended to consume refined grains, sweets, sugary drinks, and processed meats. They should replace them with fresh fruits, whole grains, vegetables, fish, and poultry items to gain a healthier balance.

Sedentary Lifestyle

The advent of an increasing number of computers, mobile phones, and technological innovations has transformed workplaces that require people to work long hours in a sitting posture involving minimal physical activity. Similarly, the trend of enjoying fast foods replacing the nutrition-rich home-cooked meals is a reason contributing to obesity.

According to Evan Bass Men’s Clinic, with lifestyle changes and giving preference to meals at home, morning or evening brisk walking, 30 minutes of cardio, such as cycling, swimming, or running, can help lessen weight gain.

Hormonal Shifts and Obesity

Hormonal imbalance is also a significant cause of obesity. Hormones such as insulin, cortisol, leptin, and thyroid hormones control hunger, metabolism, and fat storage. When their functioning is affected, the body stores excess fat and feels hungrier. For instance, insulin resistance leads to fat storage, whereas decreased thyroid function decreases metabolism. Cortisol spikes due to stress and leptin resistance also trigger overeating. Proper stress management, good sleep, and consultation with a doctor regarding hormonal disorders can prevent obesity.

The Connection Between Obesity and Sleep

Sleep has a direct impact on weight. Research indicates that sleeping less than six hours or more than eight hours a day increases the risk for obesity. Children who sleep too much are also more likely to become obese as adults.

Adhering to a pattern of seven to eight hours of sleep stabilizes metabolism and decreases the risk of obesity.

Obesity arises from a combination of genetics, diet, physical inactivity, sedentary lifestyle, hormonal imbalance, and abnormal sleep. Having regular balanced meals, undertaking regular exercise, stress management, and quality sleep are useful methods of preventing obesity and guarding long-term health.