Childhood Obesity
Articles tagged with Childhood Obesity
American Society for Nutrition Foundation and Novo Nordisk Foundation announce 2026 awardees advancing nutrition and obesity science
Study shows use of obesity drugs alongside behavioral intervention is associated with reduced “food noise”
Over half of parents in England frequently pestered by their children to buy junk food while food shopping, national survey suggests
World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology organizes World Hormone Day to educate the public about hormone-related health issues. Global endocrine disorders affect millions worldwide, emphasizing the need for proper hormone balance.
New research challenges four-decades old obesity theory as to why and how body composition varies in young children before BMI continuously increases from age 6 years – ‘the adiposity rebound’
A 42-year-old theory about children's body mass index (BMI) decrease before continuous rise is refuted by new analysis. Increasing muscle mass, not fat, causes the increase in BMI seen around age 5-7 years.
Study challenges decades-old puzzle about childhood body fat
A new study published in The Journal of Nutrition suggests that the widely cited 'adiposity rebound' may reflect lean muscle growth, not increased body fat. Waist-to-height ratio, a measure that better reflects body fat, continues to drop despite BMI increases after an initial decline.
New partnership broadens reach of Pennington generation study
The Pennington Generation study aims to explore the impact of physical activity, nutrition, and sleep on children's health and growth. The study will examine how these behaviors relate to weight gain and obesity over time.
Pancreatic fat linked to greater heart and metabolic health risks in children and adolescents with obesity
Higher pancreatic fat content is associated with higher BMI, diastolic blood pressure, liver and visceral fat, and insulin resistance in young people with severe obesity. Measuring pancreatic fat content could help identify those at risk of developing cardiometabolic health issues.
SickKids team identifies precision approach to selectively eliminate old, damaged fat cells
A team from SickKids discovered a therapeutic target in fat tissue that improves cellular function and reduces inflammation. Low-dose homoharringtonine treatment selectively eliminates senescent cells, improving metabolic problems and preserving lean mass.
New City of Hope and TGen study uncovers mechanism explaining how obesity increases cancer risk
A new study reveals that excess weight can physically enlarge organs, creating more opportunities for cancer to take hold. The study found that organs grew larger as body weight increased, with the liver growing by 12%, kidneys by 9%, and pancreas by 7% for every 5-point increase in BMI.
Teens using AI meal plans could be eating too few calories — equivalent to skipping a meal
A new study found that AI-generated meal plans for teenagers often underestimate total energy and key nutrient intake, leading to potential health risks. The plans tend to overemphasize protein and fat, while underestimating carbohydrates, which may negatively affect growth and metabolic health.
Greaux Healthy Day declared in Lake Charles: Pennington Biomedical’s Greaux Healthy Initiative highlights childhood obesity challenge in SWLA
The Greaux Healthy initiative, launched by Pennington Biomedical Research Center, aims to prevent and treat childhood obesity in Louisiana. Studies show that childhood obesity is a national healthcare crisis in Louisiana, with over 1 in 3 children living with overweight or obesity.
The weight of stress: Helping parents may protect children from obesity
A new study found that reducing parent stress can help prevent childhood obesity by improving parenting and reducing unhealthy eating habits. The 12-week randomized prevention trial showed that parents who received mindfulness and behavioral self-regulation skills combined with healthy nutrition and physical activity counseling had low...
Science reveals why you can’t resist a snack – even when you’re full
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that the human brain continues to respond to tempting food cues even after eating enough. The research used EEG brain scans to monitor volunteers' brain activity as they played a reward-based learning game with food.
Pre-pregnancy parental overweight/obesity linked to next generation’s heightened fatty liver disease risk
Research published in the journal Gut found that pre-pregnancy parental overweight and obesity are independently associated with increased odds of developing metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in children by age 24. Cumulative excess weight in childhood significantly influences this risk, with children who...
ESE and ESPE launch joint transition of care guidance to improve outcomes for young people moving from child to adult endocrine care
The ESE and ESPE have launched a landmark Joint Clinical Practice Guidance to support structured and effective transition of young people with endocrine conditions. The Guidance provides practical, evidence-based recommendations to ensure continuity, safety and quality of care during this critical phase in a patient's life.
Weight-loss wonder pills prompt scrutiny of key ingredient
A new study finds salcaprozate sodium may have adverse biological effects on the gut and beyond, including shifts in potentially harmful gut bacteria and elevated inflammatory markers. The research highlights an important gap in understanding the long-term impact of repeated SNAC exposure.
Childhood obesity causes early vascular damage, according to a study of children in São Paulo (Brazil)
A study found that childhood obesity can lead to premature vascular damage in children as young as six, increasing the risk of diseases such as atherosclerosis and heart attack. The research identified early signs of inflammation and dysfunction in the endothelium, highlighting the need for public policies to prevent childhood obesity.
Parental concerns about child disordered eating common among youth with high weights in behavioral intervention
A new study in the Journal of Nutrition Education & Behavior found that nearly half of parents of young children with high weights reported concerns about disordered eating behaviors. Despite the intervention, parental concerns did not change over time, suggesting a protective effect of motivational interviewing.
The untold story of life with Prader-Willi syndrome - according to the siblings who live it
A new study reveals the emotional challenges faced by siblings of people with Prader-Willi syndrome, including feelings of stress, loneliness, and sadness. Siblings often take on extra responsibilities at home and struggle to cope with their brother or sister's behavior and hunger.
Prediabetes is increasingly common among children living with overweight or obesity – prevalence has risen alongside maternal overweight
A recent study by University of Eastern Finland found that prediabetes has increased significantly in Finnish children living with overweight or obesity, rising from 11% to 50% over two decades. The study suggests a potential link between maternal overweight and the rise in child prediabetes prevalence.
Frontiers in Science Deep Dive webinar series: Global food systems driving twin crises of obesity and global heating
A major review in Frontiers in Science highlights how unsustainable food systems contribute to both health and climate crises. Experts examine evidence-based strategies to tackle industrial food systems promoting overconsumption and environmental pressures.
Global food systems driving twin crises of obesity and global heating
A comprehensive review highlights the urgent need to transform unsustainable food systems, which drive both obesity and environmental harms. The authors recommend subsidies for healthy foods, taxes on unhealthy products, and restrictions on aggressive marketing to address these twin crises.
Pennington Biomedical makes history with first-ever International Symposium in Riyadh
Pennington Biomedical Research Center launched its first international scientific symposium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, exceeding expectations with distinguished audience engagement and new institutional contacts.
Early normalization of weight can protect the heart from childhood overweight
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics suggests that early normalization of weight can protect the heart from childhood overweight. Researchers found that individuals who had normal weight in young adulthood after being overweight as children had a lower risk of heart attack compared to those who remained overweight.
Adverse experiences, protective factors, and obesity in Latinx and Hispanic youths
A recent study suggests that adverse childhood experiences may increase the risk of obesity in Latinx and Hispanic youths. The study found that promoting resiliency-focused skills may help improve pediatric weight trajectories among these populations, potentially mitigating the impact of adverse experiences on health outcomes.
Study: Family grocery purchases improved when online grocery carts were preloaded with healthy ingredients
A randomized, controlled pilot study found that preloading Instacart online grocery carts with healthy ingredients resulted in families making significantly more nutritious purchases compared to a group receiving only recipes. Families made healthier choices easier and more automatic.
Changing the sweet taste of someone’s diet has no impact on their sweet tooth or health, study suggests
A new trial found that increasing or decreasing sugar intake in a person's diet has no effect on their preference for sweet foods. Researchers suggest that public health advice may need to focus on reducing sugar and energy-dense foods, rather than eliminating all sweet options.
Study links America’s favorite cooking oil to obesity
A study conducted at the University of California, Riverside, has uncovered a link between soybean oil consumption and obesity in mice. The research found that a genetically engineered group of mice on a high-fat diet rich in soybean oil did not gain weight, suggesting that the liver protein HNF4α plays a crucial role in fat metabolism.
Metabolic roots of memory loss
Researchers identified biological markers of inflammation, liver stress, and early damage to brain cells in young adults with obesity. Low blood levels of choline, essential for liver health and long-term brain function, were also found. These findings suggest that metabolic stress and inflammation may begin far earlier than expected.
Everyday routines in early infancy may shape later obesity risk, study finds
Researchers found that everyday routines in early infancy can shape later obesity risk. A new study from Penn State suggests that a handful of routines around feeding, sleep and play during the first two months of an infant's life can be linked to higher weight just a few months later. The EHL tool helps pediatricians identify specific...
UC awarded $985K NIH grant to prevent infant obesity
The University of Cincinnati has received a $985,000 grant to test Healthy Eating for My Infant (HEMI), a community-based intervention promoting healthy eating and feeding practices for children 0-12 months. HEMI aims to address specific risk factors and barriers faced by low-income families. The NIH-funded study will enroll 60 infants...
Discontinuation of ADHD medication more common in children with underweight
A study published in Pediatric Drugs found that children and adolescents with underweight are more likely to discontinue ADHD medication within a year. The researchers also found clear differences in dosage, gender, and age that can affect treatment outcomes.
Pennington Biomedical researchers head to Atlanta for ObesityWeek 2025
Pennington Biomedical researchers will participate in numerous panels and presentations during the conference, sharing their latest findings on obesity treatment and prevention. The institution is well-represented at the event, with faculty members among the experts leading courses, presentations, and speaker panels.
It’s not just diet: where a child lives also raises type 2 diabetes risk
A recent study published in Pediatric Research highlights the impact of neighborhood environments on childhood type 2 diabetes risk. The research found associations between library presence, neighborhood walkability, and caregiver health, suggesting that social and environmental factors play a significant role in T2D development.
Tufts University dean named to National Academy of Medicine
Christina Economos, dean of the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, has been elected a member of the National Academy of Medicine for her pioneering research on childhood obesity prevention and her commitment to evidence-based innovations in pursuit of better health outcomes.
New blood-based biomarkers could help predict bariatric surgery outcomes in teens
Researchers developed innovative blood-based biomarkers to predict long-term blood pressure improvements after bariatric surgery. The study analyzed pre-surgery blood tests and identified top 10 molecules linked to improved blood pressure outcomes.
Most Americans think plant-based meals and nondairy milk alternatives should be available in schools
A new poll found that 67% of U.S. adults believe students should have access to plant-based meals and nondairy beverages in schools. Plant-based meals can help fight obesity, type 2 diabetes, and early signs of heart disease.
New EndoCompass Research Roadmap calls for coordinated investment to tackle Europe’s hormone health challenge
The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.
Underweight children cost the NHS as much per child as children with obesity, Oxford study finds.
A new study from the University of Oxford found that underweight children incur comparable healthcare costs as those with obesity, challenging traditional childhood health priorities. The research tracked healthcare use in over 268,000 children aged 2-15 and estimated £340 million in additional annual NHS costs.
Metabolically active visceral fat linked to aggressive endometrial cancer, new study reveals
Research presents evidence suggesting that metabolically active visceral fat is associated with more advanced stages of endometrial cancer and lymph node metastases. The study found no strong correlation between visceral fat volume and its metabolic activity.
Major study reveals stark inequalities in children’s in-school physical activity across English Primary Schools
A large-scale study of over 17,000 pupils and 2,300 teachers found dramatic differences in physical activity levels across England, with some schools achieving double or triple the levels of others. The research highlights growing evidence that children in deprived areas face bigger barriers to physical activity, even during school hours.
Weight loss treatments for people with diabetes and obesity could lower the risk of obesity-related cancers
A new study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism found that weight loss treatments, including medication and surgical procedures, may help lower the risk of obesity-related cancers in people with obesity and type 2 diabetes. The study analyzed data from over 180,000 people and found a significant reduction in cancer incidence ...
The Lancet: Parent-focused programs insufficient to prevent obesity in toddlers, finds meta-analysis; authors call for a re-think of childhood obesity prevention approaches
A meta-analysis of parent-focused programs found no significant impact on childhood obesity prevention in toddlers. The study, involving 28,825 participants from 31 trials across 10 countries, suggests that broader societal changes are needed to address childhood obesity.
Pennington Biomedical invites health care providers to childhood obesity conference “Be the Reason Kids Greaux Healthy,” Oct. 2-3
The 2025 Childhood Obesity Conference, hosted by Pennington Biomedical's Greaux Health initiative, aims to educate healthcare providers and promote healthier futures for Louisiana's children through cutting-edge research and evidence-based strategies. Participants can earn up to 7.5 CMEs and gain practical tools to support healthier fu...
Family-based intervention programs are insufficient to prevent childhood obesity, major study finds
A landmark study by the University of Sydney found that family-based early obesity prevention programs did not improve BMI in young children. The researchers analyzed data from 17 international studies and concluded that environmental and structural drivers are key to addressing childhood obesity. Governments, health officials, and loc...
How stress and social struggles fuel America’s obesity crisis
A new scientific review reveals that stress, hardship, and social challenges reshape a person's gut bacteria and brain performance, making it harder to keep weight off. Social determinants of health play a key role in obesity risk, and addressing these conditions is crucial for long-term solutions.
Teens with higher blood levels of PFAS regain more weight after bariatric surgery, study finds
A new study found that adolescents with higher blood levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) prior to bariatric surgery regained more weight and had greater increases in waist circumference up to five years after surgery. Researchers believe PFAS exposure disrupts endocrine and metabolic processes, leading to weight regain.
UH study finds positive childhood experiences protect against disordered eating
A University of Houston study found that positive childhood experiences, such as supportive relationships and regular household routines, can protect against disordered eating behaviors in college students. Adverse childhood experiences, including abuse and neglect, were also linked to increased risk factors for disordered eating.
Mothers’ genes may shape children’s weight - even without being passed down
A new study found that mothers' genetics may have a greater impact on their children's weight than previously thought. Researchers analyzed genetic and health data from over 2,600 UK families to examine the association between parental BMI and child birthweight, BMI, and diet.
U.S.-born Latinos have higher rates of obesity compared to foreign-born Latino and white youth
A recent study analyzed data from community health centers in the US between 2012-2020, finding that U.S.-born Latinos have significantly higher obesity rates compared to foreign-born Latino and non-Hispanic White youth. The researchers noted a trend of increasing obesity prevalence over time across all three groups.
Louisiana Obesity Society Conference returns Aug. 8 and 9 in New Orleans
The conference will feature keynote speakers Donna Ryan and Erik Wilson, as well as informative presentations and breakout sessions on the latest advances in obesity research. The Louisiana Obesity Society aims to support healthcare providers treating obesity through education and networking.
New genetic analysis predicts risk of adult obesity from childhood
A new genetic analysis has created a polygenic risk score (PGS) that reliably associates with adulthood obesity, showing consistent patterns in early childhood. This measure could help identify children and adolescents at higher genetic risk of developing obesity later in life, benefiting from targeted preventative strategies.
Obesity and type 2 diabetes in teen years can impair bone health
A study published by The Endocrine Society found that obesity and early type 2 diabetes in adolescence can interfere with bone development, potentially increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis later in life. Researchers followed 48 teenagers for a year, finding that teens with obesity and type 2 diabetes showed less improvemen...
The American Society for Nutrition announces Washington, DC as Host City for NUTRITION 2026
The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) has announced that NUTRITION 2026 will be held in National Harbor, Maryland, near Washington, DC. The meeting will showcase the latest developments in nutrition science and feature top experts in the field. Abstract submissions open this fall, and award nominations will also be accepted.
SEK 200 million for new research initiative on metabolism and obesity
The University of Gothenburg, AstraZeneca, Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, and Region Västra Götaland are partnering to tackle metabolic disorders. The SEK 200 million initiative aims to deepen understanding of obesity's mechanisms and develop effective treatments.
Metabolic markers found in obese adolescents guide vascular aging intervention
Researchers identified biomarkers like uric acid and bile acids as critical regulators of arterial stiffness and inflammation in adolescents with obesity. These findings provide new avenues for early intervention to prevent the progression of vascular stiffness and cardiovascular disease.
Pennington Biomedical’s Greaux Healthy Initiative for Louisiana addresses childhood obesity
The Greaux Healthy initiative aims to prevent and treat childhood obesity through partnerships with healthcare providers, educators, and families. The program has developed tools and resources for four priority populations, including expectant families, preschool-aged children, school-aged children, and adolescents and young adults.
Boys who are overweight in their early teens risk passing on harmful epigenetic traits to future children
A new study reveals that the weight of fathers during adolescence can harm genes in future children, linked to asthma, obesity, and low lung function. The effect is more pronounced in female children, highlighting a potential vulnerability window for lifestyle influences.