Account: Factors contributing to obesity

In this part of the study guide, we will give you some points to consider when you account for factors contributing to the obesity epidemic by looking at each of the source materials at a time.

Causes of obesity in “The Obesity Epidemic”

Reflect on the fact that obesity is not just a matter of weight gain and health. It is, in fact, a complex social issue that has implications for producers, consumers, economy, health system, government expenses and even on culture. Consequently, the causes of obesity are equally diverse, as the video material shows:  “Their weight gain is a consequence of complicated changes in the environment, where food is more readily available, and opportunities for physical activity are lacking”. (ll. 8-10)

In detail, the factors contributing to obesity are:

The change in eating behaviors

This which involves more processed sugary foods: “One contributing factor is the fact that the way we eat has changed over the last 50 years. Americans are eating more processed foods and eating out a lot more frequently.” (ll. 12- 14)

No access to quality food

Furthermore, people do not always have access to healthy foods or afford to buy them:

Another factor...