What Contributes To Obesity In America

It's tempting to blame obesity on having a slow metabolism or genetics. While these factors can contribute to obesity in some cases, a high-calorie diet combined with low levels of physical activity are the key causes, according to MayoClinic.com. Some social and economic factors also play a role, which can make your fight against obesity even more challenging.

Food Costs

The affordability of energy-dense foods may be linked to the rise of obesity in America, according to a study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in 2004. According to Adam Drewnowski, director of the Center for Public Health Nutrition in the University of Washington School of Public Health and Community Medicine, diets consisting of whole grains, fish and fresh fruits and vegetables are much more expensive than foods made of refined grains and added sugars and fats. Planning meals, using coupons, buying store brands and preventing foods from spoiling can reduce your food costs.

Social Barriers to Physical Activity

In some cases, a lack of motivation may not be the only reason for not exercising regularly. Living in an unsafe community -- for instance, one with cracked sidewalks, poorly kept parks and unsafe walking paths -- can limit physical activity, according to the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension. If you live in an area with a high crime rate, a fear of going outside can also make you less likely to stay active. Exercising indoors is one way to overcome these factors that might prevent you from exercising.

Lack of Sleep

Sixty-five percent of Americans lose sleep due to stress and 32 percent lose sleep at least one night each week, according to the Better Sleep Council. A lack of sleep disrupts hormones that regulate your appetite, causing you to crave foods rich in carbohydrates and calories, which can cause you to gain weight. Try to get between seven to nine hours of sleep each night. If you have persistent sleep problems, consult your doctor.

Stress

Stress at home, on the job or in your relationships is another contributing factor to obesity. Stress may encourage you to eat too many calories and also causes metabolic changes in the body that increase body fat, according to a rat-model study released in 2010 and conducted at Departments of Psychiatry and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. For instance, chronically high levels of stress elevates cortisol levels, which in turn elevates insulin levels and increases fat storage in your body, especially in your abdominal area. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga and better sleep can help you to manage stress.