But at the end of the teenage years, on average, energy requirements are likely to be less and start to decline as you age. Eating more than your body needs will obviously lead to gaining weight.

Prior to the menopause, when a woman gains weight she is likely to carry the excess weight in the hip and thigh area which is referred to as a 'pear shape'.

Then following the menopause women tend to gain weight in and around the abdominal area (central obesity) commonly referred to as an 'apple' shape.

Carrying excess weight in this area increases your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and breast and endometrial cancer.

Severe obesity can cause bone joint problems, as carrying the excess weight can place immense strain on joints such as the knees.

Throughout your life you should adjust your overall intake of food according to how physically active you are.

But although you may have to adjust your overall intake of food, it is always important to ensure that your diet remains balanced right throughout life.

This means eating a wide variety of foods and ensuring you eat a balance of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fibre and vitamins and minerals.

African-Caribbean and Asian women (Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi) appear to have an increased risk of developing diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure and this may be related to a tendency to carry any excess weight in the stomach area.