With over 1 billion overweight adults worldwide and at least 300 million who are clinically obese, obesity has reached epidemic proportions. Obesity is a major contributor to many diseases and health conditions.
Why Is It an Epidemic?
Here are some reasons for the increase in obesity:
- We are eating more energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods with high levels of sugar and saturated fats.
- We are generally less active.
- Economic growth, modernization, urbanization and globalization of food markets contribute to poor eating habits.
- Higher incomes and more urban populations encourage more varied diets with a higher proportion of fats, saturated fats and sugars.
- There is an increased shift toward less physically demanding work and less physical activity due to automated transportation, technology in the home and more passive leisure activities.
- Though genes are a factor in determining a person’s susceptibility to weight gain, energy balance is primarily determined by caloric intake and physical activity. Read Full Article
