That is that is the question you need to answer. And the answer could be stranger than you could have possibly imagined.

One of the reasons why you are putting on weight could be because of your boyfriend/partner/husband. You may be amazed or even annoyed by this suggestion, because surely your partner would only ever have your best interests heart. But if you think about it carefully and honestly you may come to realise that this could actually be the truth.

Just think for a moment, why does he always insist on buying you chocolates when you have told him countless times that you are trying to watch your weight? Why does he always ask for chips with every meal when he knows you prefer something more healthier and that you will always eat what he eats just to please him. Why does he always insist on ordering you dessert when you go out for meal, even though you tell him you are full. He knows all your weaknesses and that you love chocolates, desserts and all those fatty foods but he ALSO knows that you are trying to lose some weight and are not really happy about the way you look.

Some men, even though they pretend to be all macho are really quite insecure deep down and even if it is only subconsciously, he could be thinking that if you do lose that weight and get slim and gorgeous, he will lose you. He could be worried that someone else who is better looking and more attractive than him will come along and sweep you off your feet.

I think sometimes that us women can be so obsessed with ourselves and worry that we are not good enough or not attractive enough etc we forget that men can be equally insecure, it is just that they usually hide it well because they don’t like to be thought of as wimps.

In situations like this, I think that the way forward is to reassure your man, but in a subtle way. Make more of a fuss of him, praise him and listen to him, laugh at his (often boring) funny stories and jokes. Let him watch sports on tv. Let him think he is the boss.

Meanwhile you are slowly but surely getting stronger in your resolve. Now that you have come to realise the problem, you can do something about it. Be firm, insist on no more chocolates and sweets, tell him that you would prefer some flowers for a change. Insist firmly that you do not want those unhealthy desserts. At mealtimes, don’t ask him what he prefers, just go ahead and cook some healthy meals.

Often simply knowing the reason for a problem is halfway to the answer. So now you know the answer to the question “Why am I putting on weight” You are well on the way to a solution.