Most people believe "energy in - energy out" is the only principle that needs to be applied in weight gain and loss. But there are a wide variety of other influences that make it a far less simple process.
Genetics play a role in determining whether you have a predisposition to weight gain, but this is not a life sentence. Depression and anxiety are often linked to weight gain. Is this due to (a) a change in eating behaviour or (b) a chemical process in the body? I am not qualified to say, but I would guess the answer is (c) all of the above.
Eating behaviour is closely linked to weight gain. By using food as a means of dealing with emotions, stressors, mood and thoughts/feelings, weight keep increasing, leading to health issues and negative body image, even self-loathing and guilt. And why do we eat when we're happy, sad, stressed, tired, bored, ____________ (fill in the blank)? Because it works! (In fact, it is thought that 75% of overeating is emotional in nature.) But....and there's a big but, it is short term gain, for long term pain. The short term gain is some sense of soothing or being able to block out the problem. The long term pain is the guilt and shame, weight gain and a negative impact on health.
The development of strong coping skills is a predictor of lasting weight loss. Active participation in a weight management program can quickly reduce the negative mood contributors to excess weight. In a study done in Canada, both men and women showed significant improvements in episodes of overeating, response to physical stress, feelings of depression and perfectionist behaviours after five weeks. And not a diet in sight!
What does this mean? Simple. Focus on the "why" of eating, to help you manage the "what".
(some information in this blog adapted from www.nine.msn.com.au/dietandnutrition article "Your Mood and Weight Loss". Not a bad site, if you ignore the diets and meal replacement ads.)
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