This is to bring up the issue of the rise of obesity, and cases of overweight people in general. I am curious as to what you think about it and what you attribute it to. Are we not active enough? Do we eat unhealthily? Is it genetic? Lack of education on the topic?
I just read an article that claims that eating lots of fatty foods can cause disruptions in your genes, causing you to be fatter.
Personally, I think it is a lack of proper nutrition and physical fitness. This is easier for some people to stick to, and harder for some. But I think it is a lot easier to make healthier decisions for yourself when you are educated on nutrition and fitness.
Alright... I just made that mistake once, where I thought it was alright to just reduce calories pretty low. Then I learned that if you don't take enough in, you actually lose weight initially, but it puts your body into a mode where your metabolism decreases, and then you could just end up gaining it back. Its not healthy. But if you have a dietitian... they probably know better.
A lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet are the primary causes of obesity. Obesity leads to a lack of ability or motivation to be active, as their body's energy is lacking.
Well, only very rarely does a mutation lead to obesity. Genetics is definitely a factor, though. Thyroid hormone, Cortisol, Leptin, etc. several ingredients effect how well we distribute energy, how efficiently we store/use it, our ability to feel full and resist overeating. Some people are blessed with the positive genetic attributes, others with negative ones. Those who start behind will struggle to maintain normal weight and fitness, while the lucky ones can manage with little or no effort. Of course, we are lazier and more inclined to eat junk... :S