Discuss the multiple factors that may cause obesity

Answer 1

? An individual's genetic traits. Obesity tends to run in families due in part to shared types of genes that influence food intake by increasing the feelings of reward and pleasure associated with eating.
? Gene–environment interactions. Obesity is influenced by interactions between gene types and an environment that offers an abundant, inexpensive, and readily available supply of highly palatable foods. People who tend to overeat and gain weight in this environment appear to have an exaggerated reward response to eating energy-dense, sweet, or other appetizing foods.
? High added sugar intake. High intake of sugar-sweetened beverages has been found to promote the development of obesity in genetically susceptible people.
? Poverty and low educational levels. These two factors are strongly associated with the development of obesity. The increased risk of obesity appears to stem from the limited variety of types of food available in nearby stores, food cost, time constraints, low levels of physical activity, and lack of transportation and related factors.
? Lack of sleep. Getting 4–5 hours of sleep per night versus 8–10 hours a night is related to increased food intake and weight.
? Exposure to PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls). PCBs are used as coolants and lubricants. Exposure to them during pregnancy and early childhood is related to metabolic changes that encourage the development of obesity in children. PCBs are no longer used, but they remain in the environment and can contaminate food supplies.
? Smoking cessation. Smoking cessation is related to appetite and weight gain in most people who quit.
? Medications. A number of commonly prescribed medications—such as insulin, metformin, beta-blockers, sleeping pills, and hormone therapies—are related to weight gain.
? Physical inactivity. Reduced levels of energy expenditure for physical activity at work and at home are part of our obesity-promoting environment. This situation encourages weight gain.