A recent study published in the journal Economics & Human Biology has revealed intriguing insights into weight gain after marriage, suggesting that men are more susceptible to gaining weight after tying the knot compared to women.
The research, conducted by experts at the Chinese Academy of Social Science, analyzed data from ten rounds of the China Health and Nutrition Survey spanning from 1989 to 2015. The findings indicated a significant positive effect of marriage on body mass index (BMI) among men, particularly within the first five years of marriage. In contrast, there was no clear correlation observed for women.
Changes in Eating Habits Lead To Weight Gain After Marriage
Marriage appears to be associated with a 5.2% increase in the prevalence of becoming overweight for men and a 2.5% rise in obesity. The study attributed this rise in BMI among men to changes in eating habits and exercise patterns post-marriage.
Shiwen Quan, of the Chinese Academy of Social Science, emphasized the importance of men maintaining healthy lifestyle habits post-marriage to mitigate the risk of obesity. Quan highlighted the need for men to prioritize healthy eating and regular exercise to prevent weight gain as they age.
Previous research has also noted the phenomenon of “happy fat,” wherein individuals in satisfying intimate relationships are more likely to become obese. However, the study suggested that cultural differences may influence the impact of marriage on BMI, particularly between Chinese and Western populations.
In addition to the physical effects of romantic relationships, another study published in the journal Behavioural Sciences explored the link between romantic love and brain function. The research found that being in love can significantly impact brain activity, with romantic partners becoming the center of one’s world.
Lead researcher Adam Bode emphasized the need for further research to understand the evolution of romantic love and its effects on brain function. Despite progress in understanding the physiological and psychological aspects of romantic relationships, experts acknowledge that there is still much to learn about the complexities of love.
As studies continue to unravel the intricacies of romantic relationships and their impact on health and well-being, the findings underscore the importance of promoting healthy habits and maintaining balance in intimate partnerships to support overall health and happiness.
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