Obesity rates have significantly increased in Canada in a span of a decade. A study on the Trends in Obesity Across Canada revealed that the prevalence of obesity among Canadian adults shot up from 22.2% in 2015 to 27.2% after 12 years. The study also cited similar data from the World Health Organization, which showed that obesity rates in Canada increased from 23.3% in 2005 to 29.4% in 2016.

The obesity rate may continue to increase in the next few years, especially if the public is not well-informed about this complex disease. Obesity may lead to a bigger public health issue in Canada, and further increase people’s risk for obesity-related chronic conditions.

Understanding the Causes of Obesity in Canada

Obesity is a complex disease that stems from multiple risk factors, including one’s diet. The Canadian Sugar Institute explains that a diet rich in calories from sugar, starches, proteins, fats, and alcohol can increase the body’s storage of excess fat, especially if it is not burned properly through everyday activities and regular exercise. The institute noted that Canadians’ sugar intake actually declined as obesity rates among adults and children increased. As such, many Canadians could develop poor dietary habits due to their relationship with food, eating behaviors, ingredients affordability, and local culture.

Aside from one’s diet, the Canadian Sugar Institute points out that obesity can stem from the lack of individual activities that can help burn excess calories, such as having a sedentary lifestyle. Doing stressful activities or having a stressful lifestyle can also increase one’s risk of having obesity because stress can increase cortisol levels, induce unhealthy cravings, and tempt people to eat comfort foods regularly. Finally, societal influences like friends and family can shape one’s dietary habits for a long time and cause excess weight gain. Many factors can lead to obesity, but people can maintain a healthy weight by being more mindful of their food and lifestyle choices.

Improving the Food Choices of Canadians

Diet is a factor that can affect one’s risk of obesity. Unfortunately, many studies show that the average Canadian makes poor food choices. More people eat a diet rich in carbohydrates and sodium but lacking in fruits and vegetables, which can lead to significant weight gain over time.

People struggling with obesity can end these poor food choices by following a diet plan leading to healthy weight loss. But instead of following harmful fad diets, WeightWatchers shows that weight loss programs must be customized based on an individual’s health goals to help them understand the right nutrients and portion sizes for their body. This nutritional and behavioral science-based approach strays away from depriving people, and encourages people to shift their relationship with food by understanding nutrient needs and portion sizes instead. Through this approach, people can build healthy eating habits that can prevent them from experiencing obesity again.

Meanwhile, Canadians with normal BMIs can avoid obesity and becoming overweight by maintaining a well-balanced diet. Nutritionist Marissa Meshulam states that a balanced diet must include different types of ingredients from food groups to help people meet their daily macronutrient requirements. Though many people try to cut carbs from their diets to maintain a slim figure, Meshulam explains that a healthy diet should include carbohydrates like fiber to protect one’s gut health and also provide enough energy. The practice of including ingredients from various food groups is simple, making it easier for the public to remember and accomplish daily.

Obesity is just one of the many public health issues in Canada. Our articles cover the latest news in Canada and in the globe, helping you stay up-to-date with important information.

Elmer Hayward

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