Understanding Obesity
Answers to common questions about understanding obesity.
Questions on this page
What is obesity?
Obesity is a chronic medical condition in which excess body fat can affect health.
It is not simply a matter of willpower or eating too much.
Is obesity a disease?
Yes. Obesity can affect hormones, metabolism, the liver, heart, kidneys, joints and mental well-being.
Why do some people gain weight easily?
Weight is influenced by many factors:
- Genetics
- Food environment
- Physical activity
- Sleep
- Stress
- Hormones
- Medicines
- Age
- Medical conditions
Is obesity only caused by overeating?
No.
Food intake is important, but body weight is also influenced by genetics, hormones, sleep, medications, physical activity and the body's mechanisms that regulate hunger and energy expenditure.
Why do I regain weight after losing it?
After weight loss, the body may increase hunger and reduce energy expenditure. This can make maintaining weight loss difficult.
This is one reason obesity often requires long-term treatment and follow-up.
Is obesity genetic?
Yes.
Genetic factors can influence appetite, hunger, energy expenditure and where the body stores fat.
Genes do not determine everything, but they can influence an individual's susceptibility to obesity.