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Calorie Imbalance

Posted: Jan. 1, 2006

For each individual, body weight is the result of a combination of genetic, metabolic, behavioral, environmental, cultural, and socioeconomic influences.

Overweight and obesity result from an imbalance involving excessive calorie consumption and/or inadequate physical activity.

Genetics may increase the risk of personal weight gain. However, the choices a person makes in eating and physical activity also contribute to overweight and obesity.

Calorie consumption
In America, a changing environment has broadened food options and eating habits. Grocery stores stock their shelves with a greater selection of products. Pre-packaged foods, fast food restaurants, and soft drinks also are more accessible.

While such foods are fast and convenient, they also tend to be high in fat, sugar, and calories. Choosing many foods from these areas may contribute to an excessive calorie intake.

Some foods are marketed as healthy, low-fat, or fat-free, but may contain more calories than the fat-containing-food they are designed to replace.

It is important to read food labels for nutritional information, as well as eating in moderation.

Portion size also has increased. People may be eating more during a meal or snack because of larger portion sizes. This results in increased calorie consumption. If the body does not burn off the extra calories consumed, weight gain can occur.

Choosing a variety of healthy foods in the correct portion sizes is helpful for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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