The quality of the food brought into the home can increase caloric intake. For example, calorie-dense foods such as regular milk, sugar sweetened beverages, high-fat foods, and fast foods are potential sources of excess caloric intake. Family food preparation practices such as the use of cream, butter, or high-fat cheeses in recipes can be another source of excess caloric intake. An individual's physical activity is also an important factor in the development of obesity (Malnor, 2006).

Impact of Obesity on Society

Evidence of the considerable costs of obesity to individuals and society is rich. At the individual level, obesity is associated with health care costs that average about 30% above those for normal weight individuals. Overall, obesity-related direct and indirect economic costs exceed $100 billion annually, and the number is expected to grow. "In relative terms, obesity accounts for six percent to 10% of U.S. health care spending, compared with...
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