9781422275894

OBESITY ON THE RISE Obesity is on the rise globally. Almost one-third of people in the world meet the criteria for obesity. In the United States, one in three people are obese. There are many health risks associated with obesity. Heart disease, high blood pressure , and cancer are just a few of the health risks for an obese person. Of the top 10 causes of death in the world, the number one cause was heart disease—a problem that is not always caused by obesity but is very strongly associated with it. WHAT CAUSES OBESITY? The intake of more calories than the body burns leads to weight gain. The rise in the intake of energy-dense food that is high in salts and sugars, fried foods, and carbonated drinks are important causes of weight gain. These foods provide energy but lack vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Another significant cause of overweight and obesity is lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle. Improved modes of transportation and advanced technology have reduced the need for physical effort. Stress and anxiety, as well as some medical conditions, also cause people to gain extra weight.

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