It's important to note that there is some social science evidence that in certain cases voters may not be swayed by weight.

CNN: Chris Christie's weight: Why it matters

Ms Vezey said there was already evidence which proves that in some cases diabetes can be prevented or delayed by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and doing regular physical activity.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Compound to cut fatty food risk

Scientists have estimated that in the European Union, 21, 000 cases of colon cancer and 13, 000 cases of breast cancer could be avoided annually by people maintaining a normal body weight.

BBC: Breast cancer risk for large mums