Causes and effects of obesity

Obesity is a subject that has garnered a great deal of attention in recent years because of the increase in the number of children and adults that suffer from obesity. America is the most obese nation on earth and this obesity epidemic is having a grave effect on individuals, families and our society as a whole. The purpose of this discussion is to explain the causes and effects of obesity.

Causes

According to the Centers for disease control the causes of obesity include overeating, inactivity, illness and heredity. In most cases it is caused by inactivity and overeating. More specifically obesity occurs when there is an energy imbalance occurring as a result of consuming more calories than are used. Increased calorie consumption or overeating in America is caused in part by increased amounts of food options and changed eating habits. The centers for disease control reports that factors such as fast food restaurants, prepackaged foods and sugary drinks have contributed greatly to the obesity epidemic in America. These factors lead to obesity because individuals who consume the aforementioned items are consuming more calories than they realize. The CDC explains

While such foods are fast and convenient they also tend to be high in fat, sugar, and calories. Choosing many foods from these areas may contribute to an excessive calorie intake. Some foods are marketed as healthy, low fat, or fat-free, but may contain more calories than the fat containing food they are designed to replace. It is important to read food labels for nutritional information and to eat in moderation (Contributing Factors)."

In addition to the consumption of highly caloric foods portion size is also a major problem as it relates to the increase in obesity rates.

As a result many people are eating more at meal time and snack time which increases caloric consumptionf individuals eating larger portions do not burn off the extra calories obesity can be the result.

In addition to prepackaged foods and portion sizes, environment and heredity can also be a major cause of obesity. In fact, certain ethnic groups have higher obesity rates because of the types of foods that they consume. These foods are often high in carbohydrates, sodium and fat. When individuals are raised in environments where the consumptions of such foods are common they may develop obesity. In addiiton, poor eating habits in childhood often lead to poor eating habits in adulthood. Some people are also more likelyu to be obese if members of their immediate family are obese.

Lastly, obesity can also be caused by certain illnesses and medications. Diseases such as Cushing's disease, and polycystic ovary syndrome can casue substantial weight gain and even obesity. In addition, medications such as stearoids and antidepresants can lead to weight gain. With these things being understood people with these illnesses or taking these medications must make a concerted effort to maintain a healthy weight if possible.

Effects

The effects of obesity are numerous and include both physical and psychological factors. The physical effects of obesity include heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, hypertension, respiratory issues, and sleep apnea (Health Consequences). Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United Sates. In many cases heart disease is preventable or controllable through weight loss and healthy living. Another major effect of obesity is diabetes. Diabetes is a very detrimental disease because it can affect every organ in the body and it is a major cause of blindness in the United States. In addition, many people with diabetes experience kidney failure and even the amputation of limbs as a result of nerve damage and poor circulation (Health Consequences).

Respiratory problems and sleep apnea are also high amongst people who suffer from obesity. Respiratory problems may lead to dependence on oxygen machines. Sleep apnea is particularly dangerous because the individual who suffers from the ailment can stop breathing for substantial periods of time.

Other effects such as hypertension and high cholesterol levels can result in heart attacks and strokes (Health Consequences).

In addition obese individuals are more likely to have increased risks from certain types of cancers. These cancers include breast and colon cancers. In some cases obesity can make cancers more difficult to detect and treat. In addition some obese individuals develop Osteoarthritis which involves the wearing down of cartlidge that can lead to knee problems and back problems.