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The “dadbod” has been making the rounds on social media for a few months, and a new study shows it’s no coincidence– having kids actually causes men to gain weight. Northwestern University researchers measured the BMI of over 10,200 participants over a 20 year period beginning at adolescence and ending when participants hit their early 30s. They discovered the average six-foot man gained 4.4 pounds, or a 2.6 percent rise in BMI, after having kids. After controlling for other factors, it was determined fathers’ baby weight was in addition to the weight typically gained after marriage. Study author Dr. Craig Garfield says in a press release, “We all know dads who clean their kids’ plates after every meal. You have new responsibilities when you have your kids, and may not have time to take care of yourself the way you once did in terms of exercise. Your family becomes priority.” (UPI) (Image: www.flickr.com)