By Andy Merrett 
Apr 23, 2006

Living together is bad for women’s health, study suggests

A new study from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne suggests that women who begin living with their partners are more likely to put on weight.

It’s suggested that this is due to the central role food plays in a relationship-an ideal being that couples try to eat together each evening-and also because women are often likely to use food as a way of relieving emotional stress.

Lead researcher Dr Amelia Lake said the study findings highlighted major health issues which couples needed to address as a team early on in the relationship.

“You can’t just blame an unhealthy lifestyle or diet on your partner, as there are many other things that affect what you eat and do.

“However, research has shown that your partner is a strong influence on lifestyle and people who are trying to live healthier lives should take this factor into consideration.

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“Couples who move into together should use the opportunity of the honeymoon period to make positive changes to their diet and lifestyle by working together and supporting each other.

“But couples who have been in their relationships for longer should remember that it is never too late to make changes and again this needs team work.”

Read the full article: Cohabiting is bad for women’s health

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