What Causes Obesity?
The number one cause is lack of energy balance. An energy balance means that energy IN and energy OUT equal each other. Energy is referred to as calories. Energy IN is the amount of calories that you are getting from the food you eat. Energy OUT is the calories that are used for normal body function and physical activity.
- The same amount of energy IN and energy OUT over time = weight stays the same
- More energy IN than energy OUT over time = weight gain
- More energy OUT than energy IN over time = weight loss
Inactivity
The rise in technology has increased our lack of physical activity. With everything at our fingertips we need to go out less. It is also a form of entertainment that we prefer to do, instead of going outside and doing activities for fun. People that are inactive are more likely to gain weight because they are not using the calories that they are getting from their food.
Environment
Our environment plays a large role in obesity. Our society today doesn’t support a healthy life style.
· There is a lack of sidewalks and safe recreations areas. If there are not affordable gyms it makes it hard for people to exercise.
· Adults are working longer hours and say they don’t have time to work out, or are too tired when they have time.
· There is a lack of access to healthy foods. In some areas it is hard to find fresh food, and it is often time more expensive.
