Causes of Obesity and What Should Be Done to Prevent It

Obesity is one of the most common health issues of modern life. The rapidly changing lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, and sedentary living lie at the root of this problem. Obesity is not merely a cosmetic concern but a disease that can lead to serious health complications. However, it is possible to overcome this issue and lead a healthy life.

In this article, you will find comprehensive information about the causes and prevention of obesity, gain an understanding of the root of the problem, and explore effective solutions.

What is Obesity?

Obesity is a disease that arises from excessive fat accumulation in the body. As defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), a person is considered obese if their body mass index (BMI) exceeds 30.

This condition increases the risk of many chronic diseases and negatively impacts quality of life.

Obesity Causes

Genetic Factors

Individuals with a family history of obesity have a higher risk of developing the condition. Genetic factors influence body fat distribution and metabolism.

Wrong Eating Habits

• Fast food consumption: High-calorie, nutrient-poor foods cause weight gain.
• Sugary drinks: Carbonated drinks and fruit juices are hidden sources of calories.
• Excessive carbohydrate consumption: Refined flour and sugar cause rapid weight gain.

Sedentary Lifestyle

With the advancement of technology, the need for physical movement has decreased, while desk jobs and screen dependency have increased. Lack of physical activity reduces calorie expenditure, accelerating weight gain.

Psychological Causes

Stress, depression, and anxiety can lead to emotional eating habits. Individuals may consume excessive amounts of food in search of comfort or relief.

Hormonal Disorders

Hormonal issues such as thyroid disorders, insulin resistance, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) make weight management more challenging.

Medication Use

Some antidepressants, corticosteroids, and antipsychotic medications can cause weight gain.

Health Effects of Obesity

Heart and Vascular Diseases

Obesity increases the risk of heart attack and stroke by raising risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Type 2 Diabetes

Excess weight leads to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of diabetes.

Respiratory Problems

Obese individuals often experience sleep apnea and respiratory insufficiency.

Joint Problems

Excess weight places additional strain on the knee and hip joints, leading to osteoarthritis.

Increased Risk of Cancer

Certain types of cancer (such as breast, colon, and uterine cancer) are directly associated with obesity.

What to Do to Prevent Obesity

Gaining Healthy Eating Habits

• Eating a balanced diet: A diet consisting of protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates should be preferred.
• Portion control: Portion control can be achieved by consuming meals in small plates.
• Increase consumption of vegetables and fruits: Fibrous foods increase the feeling of satiety.
• Avoiding sugar and salt: Natural foods should be consumed instead of processed foods.

Increasing Physical Activity

• It is important to exercise at moderate intensity for at least 150 minutes a week.
• You can engage in various activities, such as hiking, swimming and cycling.
• For desk workers, it is useful to move during short breaks.

Increasing Physical Activity

Seeking psychological support for emotional eating disorders is effective in combating obesity.

Getting into the habit of regular sleep

Sleep disturbance can affect hormones and cause weight gain. 7-8 hours of sleep a day is ideal.

Increasing Water Consumption

Drinking water before meals increases the feeling of fullness and prevents overeating.

Obesity Treatment Methods

Diet and Nutrition Programs

Personalized diet programs prepared by expert dietitians should be applied.

Exercise Programs

Physical activity ensures that weight loss is permanent.

Medication Therapy

Appetite suppressants can be used under the supervision of a doctor.

Surgical Intervention

In case of morbid obesity, stomach reduction surgeries (bariatric surgery) can be applied.

Social Responsibility in the Fight Against Obesity

Obesity is not only an individual problem but also a social problem. Developing health policies, providing healthy nutrition education in schools and increasing sports opportunities are important steps in the fight against obesity.

Causes and Prevention of Obesity

Obesity is a controllable health problem. Causes other than genetic factors depend on the individual's lifestyle and habits. Obesity can be prevented with healthy nutrition, regular exercise and conscious lifestyle changes.

The causes and prevention of obesityare critical issues that directly affect public health. It is possible to prevent obesity by adopting healthy lifestyle habits. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindful lifestyle changes enable everyone to live a healthy life. Don't neglect your health; the right time to take action is now!