Although we refer to obesity mainly from an aesthetic perspective, obesity is a major public health problem worldwide, with many serious or very serious associated problems. The causes of obesity are complex and multifactorial. Bariatric and metabolic surgery specialists from Doctor Dejeu’s team list four of the factors that promote obesity:
- Excessive consumption of processed and high-calorie foods. Processed food, high in sugar, saturated fat and calories, is a major cause of obesity. Such foods have a high calorie density and can cause rapid weight gain, especially if consumed regularly and in large quantities. People who choose processed and fast foods are more likely to be obese.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity or exercise is a major cause of obesity. People who spend a lot of time sitting in front of the TV or computer without enough exercise are more at risk of becoming obese. In addition, car transport instead of walking or cycling can also contribute to a sedentary lifestyle.
- Genetic and biological factors: Certain genetic and biological factors may play a role in the development of obesity. For example, certain genetic mutations can affect how the body regulates weight and metabolism. In addition, hormonal imbalances, endocrine disorders and certain medications can increase the risk of developing obesity.
- Socio-economic factors: In many cases, socio-economic level can influence the risk of obesity. People living in areas with limited resources, limited access to healthy food and low levels of nutrition education are more likely to be obese. Also, people with lower incomes may find it difficult to purchase healthy, quality food, which can lead to consumption of processed and high-calorie foods.