For people with a higher body mass index (BMI), a study finds that psychological stress leads to weight gain.  Researchers from Harvard Medical School (Massachusetts USA) conducted a study of 1,355 men and women, ages 25 to 74 years, following them from 1995 to 2004.  For women, who experience higher levels of baseline psychosocial stress in several areas, waistlines were affected by job-related demands, perceived constraints in life, strain in family relations, and difficulties paying bills. For men, the lack of decision authority at work and difficulties in learning new skills were associated with greater weight gain.

Prevent or lessen stress in your life, by planning ahead, and preparing for foreseeable stressful events. When stress is unavoidable, manage it by:
• Noticing when you feel stressed
• Taking time to relax
• Getting active and eating healthy
• Talking to friends and family