Obesity is a complex Health Issue to address. One does not simply become ‘obese’ overnight. Obesity, the condition of being grossly overweight,is the result of a multitude of lifestyle factors. Globally, society is in the grip of an Obesity Epidemic. Basically, obesity is the direct result of an Energy Imbalance. We are consuming far too many calories to meet our physical needs. Calorie intake should meet only our energy needs – plus a little in reserve. High Calorie Intake + Lack of Physical Activity = Obesity. Let’s examine why we are becoming an Obese Society in the list below.
1/ Genes – Genetic factors and family history can increase our risk of obesity. We need to be aware of our family histories.
2/ Metabolism – A metabolic disorder or a slow metabolism can increase our risk of obesity. Diseases of the Endocrine System can lead to obesity.
3/ Behaviour – Lack of or dislike of physical activity is a major contributor to obesity. Poor lifestyle and dietary choices are also contributing factors. Stress Related Eating disorders such as Emotional Overeating are a direct cause of obesity.
4/ Environment – If we live in an area where we are exposed to many Fast Food Outlets and make poor choices,we are likely to become obese. If we live in an environment that encourages large portion sizes and overeating we are likely to become obese.
5/ Culture – Our culture can certainly predetermine our levels of obesity. Certain cultures applaud being overweight. It is seen as a sign of material success and superiority. Some cultures encourage overeating whilst other cultures simply lack education on making correct dietary choices and portion sizes.
6/ Socio Economic Status – Simply stated – the poor make cheap unhealthy food choices due to poverty and lack of education and stress. The wealthy overeat and may see obesity as a status symbol. They make poor dietary choices, in spite of education,as they have the financial means to afford to overeat.
7/ Lack of Physical Activity – as a Global Society we are now sadly lacking in physical activity.We drive instead of walking. We don’t even get up to turn on the TV. Lack of physical activity is THE major cause of obesity. The human body needs at least 3 x 20 minute exercise sessions per week for optimal health.
8/ Increased Calorie Consumption – We are eating far too many calories on a daily basis and not doing nearly enough physical activity to burn of our high caloric intake. These excess
calories are then stored as fat.
9/ Increased Portion Sizes – Over the past twenty years our traditional portion sizes have grown. Fast Food Outlets encourage larger portions at a reduced cost “Would you like to upgrade that meal for $1 “. We are consuming more calories as we upsize our portions of food and beverages.
10/ Increased Food Options – In our world today,we can stroll down the supermarket aisle or street and encounter a multitude of food options from many differing cultures.Fast Food is available 24/7 and can be ordered online and home delivered. Our ‘busy’ lifestyles encourage poor food choices and contribute to obesity.
The good news is we are all capable of managing these punitive factors contributing to obesity.It all comes down to our personal choices that we make on a day to day basis.Choose a better lifestyle. Make healthy choices. Reduce portion sizes. Get active and enjoy your life!
ÂĐ Judi Henrickson 7/2015
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