Many genes have been identified that either increase or decrease appetite. This means that some people are more hungry than others, or need to eat more food before they feel full. This increases the chances of overeating and gaining weight.

Food
People who tend to choose foods that are high in fat or contain a lot of energy (calories) in just a small portion are more likely to gain weight than people who fill their plates with bulky but low-energy foods, such as bread, potatoes and vegetables. Eating too much fat can also increase your risk of heart disease.

Many people find themselves turning to food when they are tired, bored or emotional. Using food as a quick pick-me-up, even when we're not really hungry, can lead to a weight problem. At difficult times, try to find other ways of improving your mood. Phone a friend, take a short walk or tackle an outstanding chore to distract yourself from food.

Physical activity
People who lead an active life are much less likely to gain weight than those who spend most of their day sitting in front of a computer or the TV, or in the car. Regular exercise can help to control your weight and improve fitness too, reducing your risk of problems such as heart disease and diabetes.

Obesity doesn't develop overnight. It takes around 3,500 excess calories to gain just 1lb (0.5kg). Few people gain more than 2 to 5lb each year. Weight fluctuates from day to day, but you should aim to stay about the same weight from week to week. If you notice a consistent increase in your weight, try to stabilise your weight before it develops into a serious problem. Begin by reducing the amount of fat in your diet and incorporate 20 to 30 minutes of activity into your day.

Source: BBC Health – Article by Dr Susan Jebb