Which of the following is a risk factor for hypertension?

Obesity is recognized as a significant risk factor for hypertension due to its impact on various physiological processes in the body. Excess body weight can lead to changes in hormone levels that increase blood pressure, and it also places additional strain on the heart and blood vessels. Specifically, adipose (fat) tissue can produce hormones and other substances that may raise blood pressure, contributing to hypertension over time.

In contrast, the other options—eating healthy fats, engaging in regular exercise, and consuming a high-fiber diet—are generally associated with positive health outcomes and are often recommended as part of a lifestyle to prevent hypertension and improve cardiovascular health. Healthy fats can support heart health when consumed in moderation, regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and improve overall cardiovascular fitness, and a high-fiber diet contributes to lower blood pressure levels and improved cholesterol levels. Thus, these habits do not represent risk factors for hypertension but rather protective factors.