Are You at Risk for Obesity?

Obesity is a widespread issue across the United States, and unlike other diseases, obesity is something that every American can be at risk for developing. There are some specific risk factors that exist in your life that can mean that you’re more likely to develop obesity. Some of the risk factors are preventable, while others are not. Understand what your risk factors are so you can take control of your life and your health and know if you’re at risk for obesity.

Genetic Risks of Obesity

Genes play an interesting role in weight gain, according to the CDC. While it is possible for an individual to follow in their parents’ footsteps in terms of their weight, lifestyle can also have a bearing. If you’re someone who has obese or overweight parents, then there are increased chances that you will become obese yourself.

However, what you choose to do with your life and with that information can greatly determine whether you remain healthy or overweight. If you exercise regularly and eat well, then your genes may not be the dominant factor. If you are sedentary and don’t worry about eating healthy, it’s possible that your genes will be the primary factor and you’ll become obese. To understand your genes, simply look at your parents and other members of the family and make healthy decisions when you know the risks to prevent obesity.

Lifestyle Risks of Obesity

Your lifestyle choices play a role in increasing or decreasing the risk that you will become obese. Some people incorrectly assume that because their lifestyle doesn’t cause weight gain at one point in life (like the teens or early 20’s) they can continue with unhealthy behavior without impact. If you have this mindset, you may be at risk for obesity in the future. As you age, your metabolism will change and your lifestyle will catch up to you and lead to weight gain. When unhealthy habits are established earlier in life, it can be hard to break them and contrary to popular opinion, being “skinny” doesn’t mean that you’re physically healthy.

Environmental Risks of Obesity

Look at the people you surround yourself with – are they active? Healthy? Of a normal weight? If not, you may be at risk. We’re all influenced by those who surround us and are more likely to keep up bad habits if they’re encouraged by our loved ones. If you don’t lead a healthy lifestyle, you’re far more likely to become obese. Make sure you surround yourself with people who have similar goals as you do, otherwise you will be at risk for obesity!

Medical Risks of Obesity

Side effects of certain medications and illnesses can be weight gain. This is a risk factor that you may not be able to control. Talk to your doctor about the steps you can take to try and prevent becoming overweight. A healthy lifestyle will always help counteract any negative effects. To jump start a healthy fitness and nutrition program and learn healthy habits, a weight loss retreat can have great benefits regardless of your specific risk factors.