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How do you become overweight or obese? You most likely take in more calories than you burn off with physical activity. A calorie is the energy that food provides.
Why are some people more prone to be overweight than others? These factors can all play a part:
Genes
Researchers believe that people with overweight parents are more likely to be heavy themselves. But, for most people, behavior and lifestyle play big parts, too.
Lifestyle
Lack of physical activity is a major cause of weight gain. People spend more time sitting at their desks or in front of the TV than earlier generations. So, they burn fewer calories. Add eating high-calorie foods and you have a recipe for weight gain.
Experts blame other factors, too. These include:
Health conditions and medicines
Some conditions can tend to make you gain weight. They include:
- Thyroid problems
- Some hormonal problems
- Depression
Many medicines may cause weight gain. Some of these include medicines for:
If you have a medical condition or take a medicine that you think makes you gain weight, see your doctor.
Emotional reasons
When you eat for your emotions, it’s harder to control your food intake. Learn more about emotional eating.
Also of Interest
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