Doctors Note Logo

Published on: 7/21/2026

Are we eating too much or the wrong foods for obesity?

Obesity is primarily caused by overeating and consuming unhealthy foods high in calories, sugar, and fat. Additional contributing factors include the marketing of processed foods to children, the widespread use of artificial additives, and easy access to low-nutrient, high-calorie meals. Genetics, lifestyle, sedentary behavior, and environmental influences can further increase risk. Recognizing these causes is the first step toward prevention and healthier choices.

If you're concerned about weight-related symptoms or want clarity on what may be driving changes in your health, taking a free, instant, online symptom check is a smart next step. It's quick, private, and helps you understand possible causes so you can make informed decisions about care—without waiting rooms or guesswork.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

answer background

Explanation

Eating habits play a big role in obesity. When people eat too much food or choose unhealthy options, it can lead to weight gain. Bad Eating Habits: Eating too much junk food, like chips and candy, can make us gain weight. This is because these foods have a lot of calories but don't make us feel full. Marketing to Kids: Companies often market unhealthy foods to children, which can lead to poor eating habits from a young age. This can make it hard for kids to choose healthy foods as they grow up. Food Additives: Some foods have artificial additives, which can be bad for our health. These additives can be found in many processed foods and might contribute to weight gain over time. To stay healthy, it's important to eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid too much junk food, and be aware of how food marketing can influence our choices. If you're concerned about how your eating habits may be affecting your health, try our free symptom checker to better understand your symptoms.

(References)

  • Kuźbicka K, & Rachoń D. (2013). Bad eating habits as the main cause of obesity among .... Pediatric endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism, 25577898.

  • Elliott C. (2012). Marketing foods to children: are we asking the right .... Childhood obesity (Print), 22799544.

  • Warner JO. (2024). Artificial food additives: hazardous to long-term health?. Archives of disease in childhood, 38423749.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.