New guidelines from European Association for the Study of Obesity aim to improve patient safety in obesity surgery medical tourism. The guidelines recommend multiple aspects of care, including at least 2 years of follow-up and pre-operative alcohol screening, to prevent serious injuries and death.
Researchers found that teens with obesity consumed more calories in the late afternoon and early evening compared to their peers of healthy weight. The study, published in PNAS, demonstrates that the body's biological clock directly impacts food intake throughout the day.
Researchers discovered that adolescents with higher body mass indexes consumed more calories later in the day than their peers of healthy weight. The study controlled for environmental and behavioral influences to isolate the role of the circadian system in shaping eating patterns.
A new study identified unique subpopulations of fat cells with complex predicted functions, and even found differences between human fat tissues in intercellular communication. The discovery provides a basis for further research to advance personalized medicine in obesity.
Scientists at Brown University and Cincinnati Children's found that suppressing opsin 3 in the brain of mice makes them eat less. The study suggests that opsin 3 plays an important role in regulating food consumption via the melanocortin 4 receptor MC4R.
A group of nerve cells called POMC neurons are responsible for dessert cravings, releasing a feel-good opiate when mice eat sugar. This pathway is activated even before eating, and blocking it reduces sugar consumption in full animals.
Small increases were observed in childhood obesity rates and severe obesity among US adults between 2013 and 2023. The study found no significant changes in waist circumference or other obesity-related measures during this period.
A study by University of Gothenburg researchers found that consuming sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts improved blood sugar levels in people with prediabetes. The compound had a significant effect on fasting blood sugar levels, particularly in those with certain pathophysiological and microbiome characteristics.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a way to convert gut bacteria into miniature protein factories that produce and release targeted proteins inside the lower intestine. This breakthrough could potentially treat chronic diseases.
A clinical trial found that semaglutide significantly reduced weekly alcohol craving, drinking quantity, and the frequency of heavy drinking days in adults with symptoms of alcohol use disorder. Participants who received semaglutide also consumed lower amounts of alcohol during laboratory tests.
A study published in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus found that the prevalence of older Americans without disabilities increased from 61% in 2008 to 65% in 2017. This represents a significant improvement, with an additional 2.07 million older Americans potentially having had disabilities if trends had remained constant.
UD researchers found significant differences in gene expression in adipose tissue, a vital endocrine organ linked to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The study identified four genes related to metabolism, calcium handling, and inflammation that warrant further investigation.
Columbia scientists identified specialized neurons in the brains of mice that monitor food intake and decide when to stop eating. These neurons are located in the brainstem, process complex signals, and integrate information from multiple sources to determine fullness, leading to new potential treatments for obesity.
A recent study introduces an innovative method for analyzing body composition, providing accurate assessments of body fat and muscle distribution. The approach utilizes deep, nonlinear methods to enhance estimation accuracy, surpassing previous linear models.
A narrative review of over 1,700 papers found only seven papers addressing dexamphetamine addiction directly. The study raises questions about the evidence underpinning its restriction by regulatory agencies. Dexamphetamine is effective in treating ADHD and narcolepsy but may have benefits in treating obesity.
A cohort study found that patients without type 2 diabetes had higher discontinuation rates and lower reinitiation rates of GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy. Inequities in access and adherence to effective treatments exacerbate disparities in obesity.
A cohort study of Canadian children found that high ultraprocessed food consumption during early childhood is associated with obesity development, particularly in males. The study suggests that targeted public health initiatives can help reduce ultraprocessed food intake and prevent obesity.
Two organizations, a health monitor developer and an addiction recovery platform creator, are honored for their innovative work supporting equitable health outcomes. The recognition highlights the importance of addressing social and economic barriers to cardiovascular disease.
The study found a significant increase in obesity drug prescriptions from 0.76 million in July 2017 to 1.5 million in February 2024, mirroring rising public online search activity for semaglutide and tirzepatide. This correlation highlights the real-time association between public awareness and prescription trends.
A new study from University of Florida researchers finds that heatstroke can lead to lasting, multi-organ damage and obesity in mice for months afterward. The animals' hearts metabolically crashed two weeks after the initial injury, leading to chronic deterioration and weight gain.
The BP-CATCH trial found significant racial and ethnic disparities in pediatric counseling for children with high blood pressure, but no disparities were observed among those with or without obesity. The study highlights the need to address these disparities to provide equitable care to all patients.
The European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and the European Society of Endocrinology will host the first-ever joint Congress on May 10-13, 2025. The event aims to bring together paediatric and adult endocrine specialists from across Europe and the world to collaborate and celebrate endocrinology.
A recent study by Murdoch University reveals that moderate-intensity exercise significantly influences appetite-related hormones and perceptions in males with obesity. The study confirms the benefits of incorporating regular exercise into daily routines for weight management and overall health improvement.
A Cleveland Clinic study shows that bariatric surgery significantly lowers the risk of developing serious liver complications in patients with obesity and fatty liver-related cirrhosis. The study found a 72% lower risk of liver disease complications and an 80% lower risk of progression to decompensated stage among surgical patients.
A new study from the Salk Institute has discovered that a protein called BCL6 plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy muscle mass. Increasing BCL6 levels successfully reversed muscle losses in mice, suggesting that pairing GLP-1 medications with a BCL6-boosting drug could help counteract unwanted muscle loss.
A large population-based analysis found that genetic variants in the GLP1R gene are associated with cardiometabolic traits and behavioral changes, such as risk-taking behavior and anxiety. These findings suggest that any observed behavioral changes with GLP1RA medications are unlikely to be a direct result of the medication.
Researchers investigate how sex-specific immune responses affect disease outcomes in obesity and helminth infections, aiming to develop new treatments for metabolic disorders and parasitic infections. The study focuses on macrophage-eosinophil interactions and the role of RELMalpha protein.
A new study found disparities in access to semaglutide based on insurance plan, job industry, sex, and other factors. Individuals with female identities, preferred provider organization coverage, and antidepressant use were more likely to start taking semaglutide compared to males or those with certain employment industries.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that childhood obesity treatment can reduce the risk of serious health problems such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia in young adults. However, it did not have a lasting impact on depression and anxiety, which remained unchanged regardless of treatment outcomes.
A recent study found that effective pediatric obesity treatment is associated with lower incidences of mortality in young adulthood. The treatment was also linked to reduced long-term morbidity, such as type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension.
A study found that a simple blood test could predict breast cancer risk in older women by measuring biological aging via DNA methylation changes. Lifestyle factors, such as obesity and hormone replacement therapy, also influenced epigenetic aging and breast cancer risk.
A cohort study found that insurance plan type and structure play a crucial role in determining access to semaglutide for adults with obesity. The findings suggest that targeted interventions at the insurance level could improve equity in obesity treatment access.
Research published in the European Heart Journal found that people with high amounts of intermuscular fat are more likely to develop coronary microvascular dysfunction and future serious heart disease. The study's lead author suggests that existing measures of obesity may not be accurate for all individuals, particularly women.
Researchers identified distinct metabolic profiles in skeletal muscle of Taoyuan Black pig compared to Duroc pig, with correlations to intramuscular fat content and lipid metabolism. The study provides insights into the muscle-adipose axis and potential targets for nutritional regulation.
Researchers discovered novel regulatory molecules in adipogenesis, specifically membrane receptors like GPCRs. ADGRD1 promotes differentiation of adipose progenitor cells while GPR39 inhibits this process.
A study found that intestinal bacterium Bacteroides vulgatus and its metabolite pantothenic acid regulate sugar preference by activating the GLP-1-FGF21 hormone axis, providing a promising strategy for diabetes prevention.
A new Cochrane review found that calorie labelling in supermarkets, restaurants, and other food outlets leads to a small reduction in the calories people select and purchase. The average reduction was 1.8%, equating to around two almonds per 600-calorie meal.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 16, 2025
Researchers discover immune cells regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating glucagon production in the pancreas. This complex neuroimmune-hormonal circuit reveals a new way the body maintains stable glucose levels, especially during periods of low energy.
A new study by Mass General Brigham investigators found that Black people were less likely than non-Black people to undergo metabolic and bariatric surgery, even though both groups were equally likely to discuss it with health care providers. Men were also less likely to discuss and receive MBS than women.
A team of food scientists is developing tempeh products from chickpeas and peas to offset the health risks of a Western diet. The new fermented foods may help with obesity, fatty liver, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Preliminary research suggests they are high in fiber and low in fat.
Researchers at the University of Bristol found no increase in cortisol release after waking, contrary to long-held assumptions. The study's findings suggest that daily cortisol rhythms may play a more significant role in regulating stress responses.
A new study reveals that college students and older adults gain weight during the holiday season, but in different ways. College students add muscle mass, while older adults gain fat. This finding highlights the importance of understanding weight and health across major life stages.
A new mechanism by which brown fat is converted into heat has been identified, revealing a potential target for treating obesity and related metabolic diseases. The MCJ protein plays a crucial role in this process, protecting against health problems associated with obesity such as diabetes and increased blood lipids.
Additional research is required to explore the relationship between COPD and metabolic syndrome, focusing on outcomes, intervention trials, and health services research. This will help shift from a COPD-focused approach to an integrated care approach considering all comorbidities.
SourceCOPD Foundation·JournalChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Journal of the COPD Foundation·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 9, 2025
Researchers analyzed cost-effectiveness of semaglutide for non-diabetic overweight/obese individuals with heart disease. With price reductions, semaglutide shows promise in reducing lifetime costs and improving health outcomes.
SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 9, 2025
Researchers found that brown adipose tissue enhances exercise endurance and supports healthy aging by improving blood circulation and reducing cellular stress. The study suggests that treatments mimicking BAT's benefits could lead to innovative therapies for improved energy levels and heart health.
A 12-week study found that intermittent fasting, especially time-restricted eating, leads to greater weight loss and reduced abdominal subcutaneous fat compared to a nutrition education programme. This study suggests that this strategy can be an effective method for improving cardiovascular health in people with obesity problems.
A large international study of GLP1-RA users and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) found no evidence that GLP1-RA use is associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer. The study, published in the Thyroid journal, analyzed data from 92,497 GLP1-RA users and 2,484,408 DPP-4i users.
Researchers from Kumamoto University identified SerpinA1 as a key regulator in combating obesity and enhancing glucose metabolism. The study found that activating brown adipose tissue could pave the way for innovative treatments for diabetes and metabolic disorders.
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials found GLP-1 RAs and co-agonists to be effective for weight loss in adults with obesity, including promising options not yet FDA-approved. The study also showed similar safety profiles across agents, with mild gastrointestinal side effects being the most common.
A recent survey found that nearly half of U.S. adults plan to start a new diet in 2025, with the most common diets being low-calorie and low-carbohydrate options. However, plant-based diets have been shown to be effective for weight loss without restricting or counting calories, and also reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases.
Engaging in 30 minutes of aerobic exercise per week modestly reduces body weight, waist circumference, and body fat measures. Aerobic training exceeding 150 minutes per week may be needed for clinically important reductions.
The European Society of Endocrinology (ESE) and ESE Foundation will host the first-ever World Hormone Day on April 24, 2025. The campaign aims to raise public awareness of good hormone health and improve national political engagement for better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of endocrine disease.
Researchers developed a non-invasive way to assess fat composition around the heart using magnetic resonance imaging. This technique may help doctors identify patients at greatest risk for cardiac problems and predict treatment outcomes.
A recent study discovered that assessing an individual's perceived walking speed relative to peers can identify those at risk of metabolic diseases. Faster walkers had lower risks of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
A new study found significant disparities in the use of obesity-management medications among different racial and ethnic groups. People of Asian, Black, and Hispanic descent were significantly less likely to use these medications compared to whites, even after adjusting for income, education, health insurance coverage, and clinical need.
A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior reveals a significant influence of home food environments on adolescent dietary patterns. Home food availability, particularly fruits and vegetables, promotes healthier eating habits, while neighborhood fast-food options negatively affect dietary quality.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 18, 2024
A study published in PLOS Biology found that individuals with and without obesity prefer high-calorie foods, regardless of their taste or texture. The researchers used a large group of healthy volunteers to compare food preferences among three groups: individuals with obesity, post-bariatric surgery patients, and non-obese controls.
Researchers at Université de Montréal's CRCHUM discovered that inhibiting a key brain enzyme can reduce body weight and improve physical activity in mice. The study suggests that targeting specific neuronal pathways in the brain could be crucial for fighting obesity and metabolic disorders.
Adult obesity trends in the US have declined for the first time in more than a decade, according to recent data. The South region experienced the largest decreases in body mass index and obesity prevalence, despite also facing high COVID-19 mortality rates among obese individuals.