How Calories Quickly Add Up

Many people don't even realize that they've begun consuming too many calories until they step on the scale or notice their clothes fitting tighter.

Experts say the blame for weight gain can often be placed on minor changes in lifestyle—which slowly add up to five, 10, or 20 pounds within a few years.

To gain one pound, you need to take in 3,500 more calories than you burn. This is easier than you think.

Consider these scenarios:

• A woman starts having a cup of hot chocolate every afternoon as a treat, adding 112 calories to her daily diet. Unless she increases her activity level, she'll gain more than 11 pounds in a year.
• When his usual lunch spot closes, a man starts frequenting another restaurant that serves larger portions. He cleans his plate without realizing that he’s eating more. Within three months, he’s gained five pounds.