Causes of Obesity in America - There is More Involved Than You Think

That the main causes of obesity in America have to do with diet and exercise is no surprise to anyone, I'm sure. Fast food, satellite television and video games have contributed to our poor eating habits and sedentary lifestyle. The obesity fairy has not been sprinkling dust on us while we sleep.

A recent study done by researchers at the University of Alabama has produced ten reasons for obesity in America that may possibly hold some clues to other causes for the weight problems we're experiencing in the U.S. .

The "Obesity in America" List:

1. We Don't Get Enough Sleep
It is true that the metabolism slows down when the body does not get the rest it needs. We have a sleep deficit in the United States. America needs to get its Z’s!

2. Environmental Pollution
Hormones influence weight gain. Our hormones are affected by pollutants and pollutants are everywhere!

3. Climate Controlled Environments
When the temperature changes, the body has to step up the metabolism to adjust. Many of us live and work in temperature controlled buildings. We don't have to feel uncomfortable, so our bodies don't adjust.

4.The Decrease in Smoking
Thousands of Americans have quit smoking. Quitting smoking is known to cause weight gain through two different factors - the metabolism slows down and we tend to eat more.

5. The Increased Use of Medicine
Several of the prescriptions we take for our health have weight gain as a side-effect. The use of these prescription drugs has risen and is still rising.

6. Age and Ethnicity
Middle age spread and Hispanic origin - The middle age population is growing and so is the Hispanic population. Generally, Hispanics are heavier than the rest of our ethnic groups.

7. New Moms are Older Moms
Some results of research has shown that the older a woman is when she gives birth, the better the chances that she will have an obese child.

8. The Environment of our Ancestors
The environmental problems that may have caused ancestor's obesity may be contributing to our obesity through DNA.

9. Obesity and Fertility
Studies have shown that obese men and women are more fertile than their leaner counterparts. If obesity can indeed be traced to genetics, then the amount of babies being born who could one day be obese increases dramatically!

10. Obesity and Marriage
Obese people tend to marry each other. Combine genetics with eating habits and you’ve got a whole generation of obese children who could one day possibly be obese adults.

The reasons seem to be valid ones. Still, I think I'll have a salad today. Hold the fries.

Causes of Obesity
The truth about obesity in the US.