Which of the following is NOT a reason more Americans are bingeing overweight?

• A. Increased portion sizes
• B. Sedentary lifestyles
• C. Eating more fiber
• D. Higher caloric density of foods

Answer: (C)

Weight gain happens when calories consumed exceed calories burned. Large portions push total intake higher at each meal, making it easier to tip the balance toward excess calories. A sedentary lifestyle reduces the energy you expend, again pushing toward weight gain even if eating habits stay the same. Foods that are high in caloric density provide a lot of calories in a small amount of food, so it’s easy to overshoot daily energy needs. Fiber behaves differently: it adds little to no usable calories, promotes fullness, and slows digestion, which often helps reduce overall energy intake. Because fiber tends to support controlling intake rather than drive overconsumption, it isn’t a reason Americans become bingeing overweight.