What causes obesity?

Dr Susan Jebb

Genes

Some people have a tendency to gain weight easily, whereas others seem to stay the same weight for many years without any conscious effort. These differences may be due to genetic factors.

Many genes have been identified that either increase or decrease appetite

Many genes have been identified that either increase or decrease appetite. This means that some people are more hungry than others, or need to eat more food before they feel full. This increases the chances of overeating and gaining weight.

Food

People who tend to choose foods that are high in fat or contain a lot of energy (calories) in just a small portion are more likely to gain weight than people who fill their plates with bulky but low-energy foods, such as bread, potatoes and vegetables. Eating too much fat can also increase your risk of heart disease.

Many people find themselves turning to food when they are tired, bored or emotional. Using food as a quick pick-me-up, even when we're not really hungry, can lead to a weight problem. At difficult times, try to find other ways of improving your mood. Phone a friend, take a short walk or tackle an outstanding chore to distract yourself from food.

Physical activity

People who lead an active life are much less likely to gain weight than those who spend most of their day sitting in front of a computer or the TV, or in the car. Regular exercise can help to control your weight and improve fitness too, reducing your risk of problems such as heart disease and diabetes.

Obesity doesn't develop overnight. It takes around 3,500 excess calories to gain just 1lb

Obesity doesn't develop overnight. It takes around 3,500 excess calories to gain just 1lb (0.5kg). Few people gain more than 2 to 5lb each year. Weight fluctuates from day to day, but you should aim to stay about the same weight from week to week. If you notice a consistent increase in your weight, try to stabilise your weight before it develops into a serious problem. Begin by reducing the amount of fat in your diet and incorporate 20 to 30 minutes of activity into your day.

www.bbc.co.uk

  Click Here to Get Mediterranean Diet Secrets

Mediterranean Diet Articles   Advantages of a Mediterranean Diet. The Mediterranean Diet In America. Research on the Mediterranean Diet. Live longer with a Mediterranean Diet. The Mediterranean Diet Pyramid. Reducing Mortality Rates. Mediterranean Diet Research at Columbia. Greece and Mediterranean Diet Food. The reduction of heart disease rates. The benefits of olive oil. Lowering Cholesterol with Olive Oil. Further Studies On Mediterranean Food. Mediterranean Diet Overview Mediterranean Diet Synopsis. Mediterranean Diet Eating. How did the Mediterranean Diet Originate? New York Times articles National Science Foundation articles US government articles National Science Magazine articles. Mediterranean Diet Secrets

Weight loss Articles   Control cellulite Phentermine pills and weight loss Weight loss - perception and reality. Green Tea Weight loss Supplement The natural way to fast weight loss Snack to stay Slim Weight loss psychology The truth behind fast weight loss 10 ways to cut calories 10 tips to lose weight fast Weight loss through walking The beginners guide to permanent weight loss Close kept secrets to weight loss Easy weight loss diets Losing weight with a steam bath Are diet patches safe? Weight loss - a diabetic perspective Weight reduction tips Weight loss diet pills Dieting and Metabolism Top 10 dieting and health tips

Nutrition Articles   British Food Policies. Bad Fats And Good Fats. Disadvantages Of Junk Food. Nutritional supplements support weight loss Fitness calculator Weight Loss calculators

Press Releases Why a healthy weight is important A balanced diet What causes obesity? Childhood obesity Mediterranean Diet Links Weight Loss Links

Home - Disclaimer - Blog - Archives - Affiliates