Why am I severely obese?

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

If you're extremely overweight -- meaning that you need to lose hundreds of pounds -- the explanation doesn't lie simply in your genes, food choices or habits. Your thoughts and feelings helped get you into this life-threatening state, says psychiatrist and Dr. Oz Show guest Keith Ablow, and they can help get you out.

Continue Learning about Obesity

When your 401(k) Gets Smaller, This Gets Bigger

If tough economic times have turned zipping up your jeans into Mission Impossible, you're not alone. New data is more revealing than most celebs' Osca...

Arthur W. Perry, MD

According to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, obesity is increasing in the US. In fact, nearl...

6 Surprising Factors That Increase Your Obesity Risk

You knew overeating and inactivity can up your odds—but the list doesn't end there.

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Obesity

If you have too much body fat, you are obese, just like over 70 million other Americans. It happens because you eat more calories than you use, and your body converts the excess to fat. There are lots of reasons that this can happen. Our lifestyle may lack exercise, we are given portions that are too big and too caloric when we eat, and some of us are just more efficient genetically at converting food into fat.

Learn More