Obesity happens after a prolonged time of eating more calories than what is needed and used by the body. Extra calories are stored as fat. The factors that determine caloric need differ for each person. Factors that affect weight include genetic makeup, overeating, eating high-fat foods, and not being physically active.[1]
What causes obesity?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Obesity occurs when a person consistently consumes more calories than their body requires, which leads to storage of excess calories as fat. The factors that indfluence caloric needs and weight include genetics, overeating, high-fat diets, and lack of physical activity.