Common Risk Factors of Obesity

For decades, obesity rates have been steadily climbing. Obesity is a major health threat due to the prevalence of the disorders it is linked to. However, there is more to combating obesity than just “eating less and moving more. If you are struggling with obesity, Grace Vitale Wellness can help you lose and maintain a healthy weight. Also, knowing all the factors that might increase your risk of being overweight or obese will help you take control of your situation. Here are the most common factors that can lead to obesity:

Sedentary lifestyle

In our modern world, technology has become a fundamental part of our lives.  The popularity of sedentary jobs has lured people into less active lifestyles. From the allure of binge-watching our favorite shows to the embrace of video games, our bodies yearn for movement while our minds find solace in inactivity. This mismatch between our evolutionary biology and modern habits sets the stage for weight gain and obesity.

Poor dietary habits

Our relationship with food is a complex dance of cravings, choices, and self-control. Sadly, our modern food environment bombards us with temptations at every turn. Processed snacks, sugary delights, and fast food offerings tantalize our senses and lure us away from the nourishing path. Mindlessly consuming these calorie-dense options, our bodies succumb to the gradual accumulation of excess weight. It is a challenging battle where the willpower to resist such temptations is tested daily.

Genetics

The tapestry of our genetic makeup holds the secrets to our origins and predispositions. In the intricate dance between our genes and our environment, certain genetic factors can contribute to obesity. These genetic variations influence our metabolism, appetite regulation, and fat storage capacity. While they do not guarantee obesity, they can make weight management more challenging. Understanding our genetic predispositions can help us devise tailored strategies to maintain a healthy weight.

Stress

Within the labyrinth of the mind, emotions intertwine with our relationship with food. Stress, depression, loneliness, and anxiety can push us into the arms of emotional eating. In moments of despair, we seek solace in embracing comfort foods, providing temporary relief but leaving a lasting impact on our waistlines. Overcoming these psychological hurdles requires not just dietary changes but also a holistic approach that includes emotional support and coping mechanisms.

Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions might raise your likelihood of being obese. For instance, a condition like Hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid fails to generate enough of the hormone thyroxine, is one disorder linked to increased weight gain. In addition, women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), are at high risk to develop insulin resistance, which may lead to weight gain.

Medications

Some medications may cause obesity and weight gain as their side effects. For, example taking antidepressants and antipsychotics, may cause you to eat more and burn fewer calories, making you gain weight. In addition, medications for treating diabetes and hypertension might contain elements that cause weight gain.

Call Grace Vitale Wellness to book your appointment for the treatment of obesity.