Causes of obesity

Obesity has many causes, and most people have more than one. It is rarely just about eating too much or exercising too little.

Energy balance and food

• Eating more calories than the body uses, often from refined flour, sugary drinks, fried snacks and large portions
• Frequent processed and packaged foods
• Eating late at night or skipping meals and then overeating

Activity

• Desk work, long screen time and little walking
• Reduced physical activity with age

Sleep and stress

• Short or poor sleep raises hunger hormones
• Chronic stress and emotional eating

Genes and family

Family history influences body shape, appetite and where fat is stored. South Asians tend to store more fat around the belly at a lower weight.

Medical causes

• Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Cushing syndrome
• Insulin resistance and diabetes
• Rare genetic conditions

Medicines

Steroids, some antidepressants and antipsychotics, some diabetes medicines (such as insulin and sulfonylureas), some anti-epilepsy medicines and some contraceptives can add weight. Never stop a medicine on your own, but ask your doctor if weight gain is a concern.

Life stages

Pregnancy, menopause, quitting smoking and childhood overeating or inactivity.

Environment

Easy access to cheap high-calorie food, few safe places to walk and food marketing.

Ayurvedic view

Day sleep, heavy sweet and oily food and lack of activity are traditionally linked to Sthaulya. This is interpretive.

Remember

Finding your own causes, including thyroid and sleep, helps plan care without blame.