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Lack of sleep is another cause of obesity.

Not getting enough sleep, scientists from the University of Lyon said increases the hunger sensation by 25 percent.

"If this translates to a proportional increase in calories, then a person with reduced sleep could eat 350 to 500 calories more per day," researchers said.

After comparing data on other research projects on obesity and sleep duration, the researchers led by Karine Spiegel, found that lack of sleep does contribute to obesity. It is effective especially in young adults and children.

"While it might be natural to think that sleeping less (or being awake more) means you use more calories and should therefore lose weight, studies have shown the opposite to be the case," said the statement. "Interventions as simple as extending the nightly sleep duration in these younger, habitual short sleepers should be explored to prevent obesity."

For adults, seven to eight hours should be the minimum hours of sleep to remain healthy.