A study published in the International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology shows that gaining weight doesn’t reduce happiness. Some people who gained weight actually reported feeling a little happier.
How Was the Study Conducted?
The study tracked 8,815 people from Germany over a period of 10 years (2011–2021), ages 25 to 60. It explored how changes in body weight affected overall happiness.
Key Measurements in the Study
Researchers used Body Mass Index (BMI) to measure weight and asked participants how satisfied they felt with their lives to measure happiness.
The results showed that weight gain was not linked to decreased happiness, with an increase in BMI either having no effect or a slight positive impact for both men and women.
Researchers were surprised that weight gain didn’t affect happiness as they expected. The data showed no strong negative impact from gaining weight.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Effects
People may feel unhappy about weight gain in the short term. But over time, they get used to it, and it doesn’t affect their happiness.
Weight gain doesn’t define your happiness. Life satisfaction depends on many factors like relationships, health, and how you feel overall. Don’t stress the scale—focus on the bigger picture!