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Winter Blues Intensify UK's Worsening Weight Problems

This World Health Week, research reveals that obesity rates are continuing to rise, with experts predicting that by 2020 the majority of men and women will be either overweight or obese
Health - 8 October 2010   Download IconContent available for download:  
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Latest research reveals that obesity rates have risen by 24% since the 1960s, with experts predicting that by 2020 81% of men and 68% of women will be either overweight or obese. Brits are far less likely to try to lose weight nowadays, with only 57% admitting they have tried to lose weight in the past year, compared with 90% in 1967.

Women often find it harder to lose weight than men, with half of women in the UK admitting they want to change their diet. Being in a relationship can lead women to gain as much as 10lbs in weight, with dining out, eating man-sized portions, not having the time to exercise and being in a ‘comfort rut’ amongst the reasons for putting on extra weight.

The winter blues often lead us to crave sugary foods and carbohydrates, with 90% of people admitting they eat and sleep more during the winter months. Excess carbohydrates can lead to weight gain since they only satisfy appetite in the short term and often leave us feeling more hungry, causing us to eat more than we need.

. Introduction:

This World Health Week (4th – 10th October) research reveals that Britain’s obesity problem is continuing to worsen, with experts predicting that by 2020 the majority of men and women will either be overweight or obese. Despite this Brits are far less likely to try to lose weight nowadays, with just over half of adults admitting they have tried to lose weight in the past year. As the winter months draw near, millions of us will neglect our healthy lifestyles and turn to comfort eating due to dampened spirits. The winter blues often mean that we consume more calories than usual which can lead to weight gain. Nearly half of women want to change their diet, yet the cold weather means carbohydrate cravings often take over, only satisfying hunger in the short term and causing us to eat more.

So how can we lose weight in a healthy way this winter?

Joining us to discuss this further is Johanna Hignett, a Nutritionist with Be In Shape.

. Suggested Questions:

What does the research reveal about weight in our area?

Why is it important to eat healthily, particularly during the winter months?

What are the consequences of craving and consuming excess carbohydrate during the winter?

What foods make us feel fuller for longer?

What advice have you got for those who want to maintain their weight this winter?

Where can we find out more information?