Obesogenic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🍔
obesogenic
[ˌoʊ.bi.səˈdʒɛn.ɪk ]
Definition
environmental
Promoting excessive weight gain or obesity. Refers to factors or conditions that are conducive to causing obesity.
Synonyms
obesity-promoting, weight gain-inducing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| obesogenic |
This term has been repeated and should not be included again. See the first entry for its context and examples. |
| obesity-promoting |
Can be used in both scientific and more general contexts to describe behaviors, environments, or factors that contribute to obesity. This term is more descriptive and easier to understand for a general audience.
|
| weight gain-inducing |
Typically used in casual and conversational settings to describe foods, habits, or environments that lead to weight gain. This term is more straightforward and less technical.
|
Examples of usage
- An obesogenic environment is one that encourages overeating and sedentary behavior.
- Fast food advertising contributes to the obesogenic nature of society.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health Impact
- Certain neighborhoods with limited access to fresh foods have been labeled as obesogenic due to the prevalence of fast-food options.
- Obesogenic environments include places where unhealthy foods are cheaper and more accessible than healthy ones.
- The World Health Organization recognizes that urban planning can create obesogenic environments if there are few parks or places to exercise.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often depict characters living in obesogenic environments, highlighting the challenges they face with food and health.
- Documentaries discussing the obesity epidemic often explore the role of public policy in creating obesogenic environments.
- Social media influencers often promote healthy lifestyles in contrast to obesogenic factors, aiming to encourage healthier choices.
Psychology
- People living in obesogenic environments may develop habits that lead to overeating, often related to stress or convenience.
- Studies suggest that when people are surrounded by temptation, like junk food ads or convenience stores, it affects their eating choices.
- Environmental cues, such as portion sizes and food packaging, can activate cravings, influencing weight gain.
Policy and Education
- Government initiatives have been launched in various countries to counteract obesogenic environments by promoting healthy eating.
- Educational programs focus on teaching families about nutrition and the impact of their surroundings on health.
- Local governments can play a role in creating healthier environments by regulating the types of food outlets allowed in neighborhoods.
Origin of 'obesogenic'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'obesogenic' combines 'obese,' meaning overweight, and the Greek 'genes,' meaning 'producer' or 'origin.'
- This word started being used in the late 20th century as researchers began linking environments to obesity rates.
- It reflects the growing understanding that weight isn't just about personal choice, but also influenced by surroundings.
The term 'obesogenic' originated in the late 20th century as a descriptor for environments, policies, and conditions that promote obesity. With the rise of obesity rates worldwide, researchers and public health advocates began to focus on identifying and addressing obesogenic factors. By understanding the impact of obesogenic environments, strategies can be developed to combat the obesity epidemic.
See also: obesity.