Obesity Is More Than Eating Too Much
The causes of obesity extend far beyond overeating or lack of exercise. Research shows that the body often defends excess weight, making weight loss difficult even when lifestyle changes are made. Many individuals with obesity do not necessarily eat more or move less than people of normal weight. Factors such as genetics, medical conditions, medications, and hormonal imbalances all play a role.
Key Causes of Overweight and Obesity
There is no single reason why obesity develops — instead, multiple factors often interact. The most common contributors include unhealthy eating habits, sedentary behaviour, genetic predisposition, underlying illnesses, medication use, and psychological stress.
Unhealthy Eating Patterns and Dieting
Poor eating habits are one of the most significant drivers of weight gain. Regularly consuming too many calories, especially from high-energy foods that are always within reach, leads the body to store excess energy as fat. Surprisingly, strict diets can also contribute to obesity by slowing metabolism and triggering overeating after periods of restriction.
Lack of Physical Activity
Modern life encourages long hours of sitting, both at work and during leisure time. Low daily movement means low energy expenditure, making it easier for excess calories to be stored as fat. When calorie intake regularly exceeds calorie burn, weight gain becomes almost inevitable.
Family and Genetic Factors
Genetics influence how the body regulates hunger, satiety, fat storage, and metabolism. A family history of obesity does not guarantee that a person will become overweight, but it significantly increases the risk. Genetics determine how efficiently the body processes food and where fat is stored.
Medical Conditions and Medications
Several medical conditions can promote weight gain, including:
- Hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism
- Cushing’s syndrome, which increases cortisol levels
- PCOS, which disrupts insulin balance
- Testosterone deficiency in men
- Depression, which is closely linked with changes in appetite and motivation
- Chronic illnesses, such as osteoarthritis, which limit movement and reduce energy expenditure
Certain medications also contribute to weight gain, including antidiabetics, antidepressants, glucocorticoids, and neuroleptics.
Stress and Psychological Factors
Chronic stress, lack of sleep, and emotional strain can all encourage overeating. Hormonal changes during stress affect hunger and satiety, making it harder to control food intake. Emotional eating often becomes a coping mechanism during times of pressure or fatigue.
Other Contributing Factors
Additional factors that may lead to obesity include binge eating disorder, pregnancy, and quitting smoking. Each can influence appetite, metabolism, and eating behaviour in different ways.
