Weight gain occurs when more calories are eaten and drank, than burnt through exercise and normal daily activities. The body stores these extra calories as fat. Weight gain and obesity usually results from a combination of causes and contributing factors; such as lifestyle, genetics, medical conditions and prescribed medication.

Risks of obesity

It is the consequence of obesity and being overweight that make the statistics so serious. It is well documented and evidenced that obesity can increase the risk of developing a number of serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, such as:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Coronary heart disease
• Stroke
• Type 2 diabetes
• Some types of cancer, such as breast cancer and bowel cancer

More information can be found at: NICE and NHS.