Am I at Risk of Obesity?

• Genetics: Your genes play a role in how food is converted into energy, and how body fat is stored and where it is distributed.
• Family lifestyle: Obesity can be hereditary due to similar eating habits and activity levels.
• Inactivity: Leading a sedentary life can make you burn fewer calories every day.
• Unhealthy diet: A diet high in calories and low in fibre can lead to weight gain.
• Medical problems: Certain conditions can cause obesity such as Cushing's syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome. Other conditions such as arthritis that can reduce your level of activity can also result in weight gain.
• Medications: Certain medications for depression, seizure, diabetes and psychosis, and some steroids can cause increased weight.
• Age: Although obesity can be seen in all ages, the changes in hormone and reduced activity increase your risk of obesity.
• Pregnancy: Weight gained during pregnancy is difficult to lose in some women.
• Sleep: Excessive sleeping and lack of sleep can both cause hormonal changes that increase your appetite, making you crave for high-calorie foods.