Married Women Heavier Than Non-Married

It’s a common assumption that women ‘let themselves go’ when they get married.  However, a new study suggests that there may be some truth in the old adage. 

The study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine followed 6,000 women 18-23 over a 10 year period.  Researchers found that a 10st woman gained 11lbs if she was single and childless.  However, she would be 15lbs heavier if she had a partner, and 20lbs heavier if she had both a partner and a baby.

The researchers attributed the weight gain to cohabiting women eating unhealthier food because of their partner, while they also have less time to exercise.

Professor Annette Dobson, who co-authored the study along with Professor Wendy Brown and Richard Hockey, said:

"This is a general health concern as obesity rates continue to increase. Getting married or moving in with a partner and having a baby are events that trigger even further weight gain. We must look at ways to prevent health risks by focusing on the times when women need to be especially careful."

Source:  The Telegraph