Overweight and obesity are – after smoking – the biggest risks for cancer in our lifestyle. That is why the World Cancer Research Fund has investigated what leads to weight gain. For the new weight gain report, a panel of international experts analyzed global research. In addition, we mapped out what increases the risk of overweight and obesity in our diet and lifestyle. The new report 'Diet, nutrition and physical activity:Energy balance and body fatness' is part of the largest study ever into nutrition, lifestyle and cancer.
What increases the risk of being overweight? You have little or no influence on some factors that lead to weight gain. Examples include:
Heredity.
Psychosocial factors, such as stress, eating disorders and depression.
Maternal nutrition during pregnancy. Babies of overweight or obese mothers are more likely to become overweight or obese themselves.
Environmental and political factors, such as whether healthy food is available and affordable.
Certain bacteria in the gut.
But there is a lot you can influence.
Which increases the risk of overweight and obesity:
Screen time. The evidence from research is particularly strong in children. Children who spend a long time in front of a screen (computer, tablet or watching TV) are more likely to be overweight and obese.
Drinks with added sugars.
Fast food.
A Western diet, which includes a lot of meat , sugar and fat
Which reduces the risk of overweight and obesity:
Walking.
Moderately intensive exercise, such as cycling.
Fiber-rich food, such as wholemeal bread and brown rice.
A traditional Mediterranean diet consisting of lots of vegetables, fruit, wholegrain products, legumes, fish , olive oil and small amounts of meat and dairy.
If the baby has been breastfed.
Overweight and cancer
Overweight and obesity increase the risk of as many as 12 forms of cancer. After smoking, overweight and obesity are the biggest risks for cancer. This is the result of the largest study ever into nutrition, lifestyle and cancer. One of the World Cancer Research Fund's recommendations is:Maintain a healthy weight. Keep your weight within healthy limits and prevent weight gain in adulthood.
