Overweight and obesity are increasingly common problems in our modern society. Over the past 30 years we have seen a sharp increase in the number of overweight people.
Over 50% of men and almost 45% of women in the Netherlands are overweight. Severe obesity has even increased from 5% to 12%. What are the causes of obesity and what are the health consequences? We take you through the main factors and consequences.
Causes of obesity
There are multiple causes of obesity, ranging from genetic predisposition to lifestyle choices. Several causes are covered.
Less exercise
One of the main causes of obesity is lack of exercise. Our bodies are built to be active, but in modern society we move less and less. This, combined with high calorie intake, leads to weight gain.
Wrong dietary habits
Eating foods with high energy density and low nutritional value contributes to obesity. Manufacturers often manipulate food products by adding extra salt and sugar, which can lead to addiction.
Psychological factors
Emotion eating and stress are also major causes of obesity. People often use food as a way to cope with negative emotions, which can lead to excessive calorie intake and weight gain.
Metabolism and medical causes
A slow metabolism, hormonal imbalances, and medical conditions such as thyroid problems can contribute to weight gain. Some medications also have weight gain as a side effect.
Carbohydrate addiction and insulin resistance.
Prolonged high intake of fast carbohydrates can lead to insulin resistance, where cells no longer respond properly to insulin. This can cause a vicious cycle of feeling hungry and overeating. The only cells that do not become insulin resistant are the fat cells around the abdomen, which store glucose as fat.
Consequences of being overweight
Being overweight has not only a physical, but also a psychological impact. The possible consequences of obesity are diverse and can be serious.
Physical consequences
- Cardiovascular disease: Being overweight increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Diabetes: There is a strong link between obesity and type 2 diabetes.
- High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol: Both are risk factors for heart disease.
- Cancer: Obesity increases the risk of several cancers, such as colon and uterine cancer.
- Sleep apnea and hormonal disorders: Obesity can lead to breathing problems during sleep and hormonal imbalance.
- Osteoarthritis: Being overweight puts extra pressure on the joints, especially the knees and hips, which can lead to osteoarthritis. This is a painful condition in which the cartilage in the joints wears down.
- Hypoventilation: Being overweight can lead to hypoventilation, a condition in which a person does not breathe enough to supply the body with adequate oxygen. This can lead to serious health problems, including breathing problems and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Being overweight, especially if a lot of fat accumulates in the chest and abdomen, puts extra pressure on the respiratory muscles and chest. This makes it harder for the lungs to fully expand during breathing, resulting in reduced breathing capacity.
- Problems with fertility: Being overweight can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect fertility. In women, this can lead to irregular menstruation and ovulation problems. In men, obesity can reduce sperm quality.
Psychosocial consequences
- Negative self-image and low self-esteem: Overweight people may develop a negative self-image.
- Depression and anxiety disorders: The psychological impact of obesity can lead to mental health problems.
- Social isolation and discrimination: Overweight people may feel isolated and sometimes discriminated against.
Future expectations for overweight
Expectations for overweight and obesity in the Netherlands show a worrisome trend. Currently, about 50% of Dutch adults are overweight and 15% are obese. Without effective interventions, this number is expected to increase to two-thirds of the adult population in the next 20 years
