"Marriage and Weight Gain: Who's Most Likely to Pack on the 'Happy Fat'?"

A study reveals that men are more likely than women to gain weight after marriage, with a significant positive effect on body mass index (BMI) within the first five years of marriage. The research, based on data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey, found that marriage is associated with an increase in the prevalence of becoming overweight for men. This phenomenon, known as "happy fat," is linked to men eating more and exercising less as their marriage continues. However, the impact of marriage on BMI may vary between Chinese and Western populations. Additionally, a separate study suggests that romantic relationships can rewire the brain, making the loved one the center of the world.