The factors that encourage excess body fat stores and obesity include ______.

• A. a positive energy balance where caloric intake exceeds energy expenditure
• B. increased basal metabolic rate
• C. high levels of physical activity
• D. consuming fewer calories than the body needs

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of energy balance: Energy balance refers to the relationship between the calories consumed (through food and drink) and the calories expended (through basal metabolic rate, physical activity, and other bodily functions). A positive energy balance occurs when caloric intake exceeds energy expenditure, leading to weight gain and potentially excess body fat stores.
2. Analyze the role of basal metabolic rate (BMR): BMR is the amount of energy the body uses at rest to maintain basic physiological functions. An increased BMR typically means the body is burning more calories, which would not encourage excess body fat stores or obesity.
3. Evaluate the impact of physical activity: High levels of physical activity increase energy expenditure, which helps maintain or reduce body fat stores. Therefore, this factor does not contribute to obesity.
4. Consider the effect of consuming fewer calories than needed: When caloric intake is less than the body's energy requirements, the body uses stored fat for energy, leading to weight loss rather than weight gain or obesity.
5. Conclude that the primary factor encouraging excess body fat stores and obesity is a positive energy balance, where caloric intake exceeds energy expenditure. This imbalance leads to the storage of excess energy as fat.