Dietetic Technician Practice Test

The primary cause of obesity is an imbalance between caloric intake and energy expenditure. This means that when an individual consumes more calories through food and drink than they can burn off through physical activity and metabolic processes, the excess calories are stored as fat, leading to weight gain and ultimately obesity. This fundamental concept is central to understanding weight management, as it highlights the importance of balancing dietary habits with physical activity.

While genetic factors can contribute to a person's predisposition to obesity, they do not act alone. Genetics can influence metabolism, appetite, and fat distribution, but lifestyle choices primarily drive the caloric balance. Increased physical activity plays a crucial role in preventing obesity, as it helps burn calories. However, if caloric intake remains high without sufficient physical activity, it doesn’t address the imbalance. Similarly, consuming only high-fat foods does not directly account for weight gain unless it leads to an overall excess in calories consumed. Therefore, the correct answer encompasses the overall relationship between diet and energy expenditure, which is essential for effectively understanding and addressing obesity.