Some people have a tendency to gain weight easily, whereas others seem to stay the same weight for many years without any conscious effort. These differences may be due to genetic factors.
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.
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.