CAUSES

Overconsumption of Food

Humans used to go days without eating and their bodies would adapt to store as much energy as possible as fat. But now, in the age of fast transportation and fast food, most people can get a 2000 calorie meal in minutes for just $6, for instance. The body has not adapted to this and will readily store excess calories as adipose tissue around the body. And, because the metabolism can slow so quickly, it is difficult to shed the fat compared to how easily it comes on. Many Americans are not mindful of this and take advantages of this energy over-availability in the 21st century. Additionally, people snack in between meals, needlessly adding excess calories.

Sugary Drinks

As Styrofoam cup sizes get bigger in bigger, so do those that consume them. Caloric drinks do not stimulate the release of leptin (the hormone to feel full) and thus one will consume more food in addition to the drink. The sugar in most drinks, especially smoothies, will diffuse straight into the blood stream as there is little to no fiber or solids to be digested. This can increase risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and more. 

Sedentary Lifestyles

Quickly gentrified cities have a decreasing amount of walkable paths, and why would you need it? A car or train or plane can get you there infinitely faster. However, there are growingly apparent negative consequences, the most notable being: obesity. A lifestyle in which transportation involves little exertion, work (seated) involves little exertion, and organized physical activity is neglected by many, is sedentary. A sedentary lifestyle increases the likelihood of developing obesity, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cancer, and more tenfold. The definition of a sedentary lifestyle is "when someone spends six or more hours per day sitting or lying down, and they lack significant physical movement in their daily life" and unfortunately describes a majority of Americans. 

Food Culture

Anniversaries, holidays, birthdays, promotions, engagements, etc. are all hallmarked by food extravaganzas. They have been a way to bring people together for generations across the world. However, the frequency of such events have increased, becoming a justification to eat unhealthy foods in unhealthy quantities. A typical Friday night for some can involve drinking (21+) and eating out with friends to relax after a long week; but doing this every week adds up quickly. An extra 300 calories a week is a pound of fat in 2 months, and it is often more than 300 calories consumed.

Chronic Sleep Deprivation

It is recommended for teenagers to get 8-10 hours of sleep per night. Reportedly, only 13% actually do (Stanford Medicine). Though adults require marginally less sleep time, only 1 in 3 reach that number. America is experiencing chronic sleep deprivation. When sleep deprived, the body is in a state of stress. Cortisol is released and the brain is on edge. Symptoms include

• fatigue

• mood changes

• difficulty concentrating

• paranoia

• hallucinations

• memory problems

Yet, when this happens consistently for weeks, months, or even years on end, the body becomes desperate and holds onto calories more easily. In addition to the side effects listed above, one will feel more hungry and gain weight as a result. Side effects less known to the general population include:

• hormone imbalance:

  • excess ghrelin release (hormone responsible for feeling hungry)

  • lower leptin levels (hormone responsible for feeling full)

There is a reason sufficient sleep is required for an effective fitness journey. 

Genetics

If either parent is overweight or has diabetes when "creating" their child, the likelihood of their offspring to be overweight or develop diabetes is higher. Additionally, if the mother develops gestational diabetes (diabetes only during pregnancy), their child is much more likely to develop it themselves. Studies show there is a certain gene MC4R that encodes the melanocortin 4 receptor that makes children feel extremely hungry and chronically overeat (CDC). Though, this reportedly only affects <5% of all obesity cases. There are certain individuals that find it extremely difficult to lose weight through conventional means because of their genetic predisposition, however it is still possible. 

SOLUTIONS

Better Education

Schools should teach the basics of nutrition, sleep, and fitness starting from a young age to create a generation of educated consumers. This way, people will be mindful of the consequences of their decisions when they eat fast food, don't exercise, etc.

Re-popularize Outdoor Activities and Sports

This will give kids a way to fall in love with activity and create lifelong habits as well as a means to be more social and join communities. PEA itself is an example of this, though there are countless organizations and facilities that will assist in creating a love for moving your body.

Increase Interest in Healthier Foods

For instance, fruits can be delicious desserts. Shaping salads and other healthier meals to be delicious enables kids to enjoy eating well, rather than dreading the sight of a vegetable on their plate. Starting young reinforces the lifelong habits that will keep people healthy for the rest of their lives.

Decrease Price of Healthier Foods

Many families unfortunately cannot afford fresh greens or fruits because of their price and as a result turn to fast food. Decreasing the cost of production and thus consumption will make eating healthier a more appealing lifestyle, though it is a big feat. 

Encourage Better Sleep Schedules

Decreasing screen time, increasing physical activity, and decreasing added sugar consumption will help people will fall asleep more easily. However, it is a much bigger issue than that. Society is structured to make kids wake up early and do homework and extracurriculars late. Time management can make a huge difference, but sometimes sacrifices must be made. Prioritizing sleep as often as possible will maximize its benefits and diminish the hormone-related consequences.

Continue Research

Research in understanding genetics and hormone pathways help us better understand the causes of obesity and will enable us to address it swiftly and more efficiently in the coming decades.

Images by Sophie:

Written By: Siena