Toxic Chemicals in Our Environment That May Cause Weight Gain

America has known about its weight problems for years. But while American obesity makes the headlines, the World Health Organization reports that obesity is increasing worldwide. In fact, obesity is an increasing problem for even children and young adults.

According to the WHO, nearly 2 billion adults were overweight or obese worldwide in 2016. The number has tripled since the 1970s. This trend is increasing. Even prior to the pandemic lockdowns, global public health policies encouraged people to stay home to stay safe, which has only made the problem worse.

Data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that the obesity rates in 16 states are 35% or higher. Lower activity rates, emotional stress, and fear of going outside are contributing to America’s obesity problem.

While many who are overweight enjoy good health, being overweight or obese can impair fertility, cause back and joint pain, and even interfere with proper lung functioning. According to Harvard School of Public Health, people who are obese are at increased risk of arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, depression, and other mood disorders. And we know that obesity is linked through peer-reviewed studies to poor outcomes in COVID-19 cases.

Toxic chemicals may be making you fat

Causes of weight gain can be complex. They may be grounded in food choice, genetics, cultural preferences, a history of trauma, psychological disorders, lifestyle, and exposure to advertising among other factors.