Study shows game-changing obesity drug more than halves risk of type 2 diabetes
Weekly injections of semaglutide reduce type 2 diabetes risk by over 60%, mirroring significant weight loss. Sustained treatment is necessary to maintain the benefit.
Obesity
Research on obesity, its causes, and its treatment. Covers GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, diet, metabolic health, treatment guidelines, and obesity in children.
How slow muscle fibers convince their neighbors to join them
Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University discovered that a protein excreted by type I muscle fibers can differentiate surrounding myoblasts into type I fibers, upending the notion that fiber ratios are fixed at birth. This finding has significant implications for treating conditions such as type 2 diabetes and aging populations.
Front-loading calories early in the day reduces hunger but does not affect weight loss
A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that eating a larger meal in the morning does not impact energy metabolism but may help with appetite control and satiety. Healthy subjects who followed a morning-loaded diet reported feeling less hungry later in the day.
Analysis of gestational weight gain during pandemic
The study found that pregnant individuals younger than 25 years, non-Hispanic Black individuals, unmarried individuals, and those with obesity before pregnancy experienced higher gestational weight gain. The pandemic also led to a higher risk of excessive gestational weight gain among these groups.
Weight loss in first three sessions of weight management programmes predicts success
Researchers found that early weight loss is strongly associated with short and medium-term success in weight management programmes. Those who fail to lose at least 0.5% of their body weight after three sessions are unlikely to succeed. The threshold of failing to achieve 0.5% body weight loss was 95% accurate at identifying participant...
Pregnant women with obesity and diabetes may be more likely to have a child with ADHD
Children born to mothers with gestational diabetes and obesity are twice as likely to develop attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a new study. The researchers found that excessive weight gain during pregnancy was a significant risk factor for ADHD in offspring, but not within normal weight gain ranges.
SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateSep 8, 2022
Can achieving beneficial ketone levels improve metabolic health in the military?
Studies investigate lifestyle interventions to achieve nutritional ketosis and its impact on chronic illness, sleep, and cardiovascular disease in the military. Researchers aim to understand how ketogenic diet, ketone-based beverages, and their effects on clinical outcomes will benefit soldiers' health.
Psychological distress before COVID-19 infection increases risk of long COVID
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that psychological distress before COVID-19 infection was associated with a 32%-46% increased risk of developing long COVID and 15%–51% greater daily life impairment due to long COVID.
“Gateway” foods like candy, pastries and frozen treats may lead to unhealthy teen eating
A new study led by a 16-year-old scientist found that certain ultra-processed foods, such as candy and pastries, can lead to increased consumption of other unhealthy foods among teenagers. Reducing consumption of these 'gateway' foods may help reduce overall unhealthy food intake and positively impact health.
Cancers in adults under 50 on the rise globally
Researchers identified increased incidence of early-onset cancers globally, linked to dietary changes and lifestyle factors. The study found that factors like highly processed foods, sugary beverages, and sedentary lifestyles contribute to the rising cancer rates among adults under 50.
High cholesterol, overweight and reduced physical stamina are long COVID sequelae in young adults
A new study found that young Swiss military personnel with confirmed Covid-19 infections experienced symptoms like fatigue, reduced sense of smell, and psychological problems for up to 180 days. Long-term effects included increased BMI, high cholesterol, and lower physical stamina, suggesting a higher risk of metabolic disorders and ca...
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 5, 2022
Obstructive sleep apnoea linked to increased risk of cancer, a decline in mental processing powers and an increased risk of blood clots
A large study found that obstructive sleep apnea is independently associated with an increased risk of cancer. Patients with more severe OSA were also at a greater risk of developing blood clots. Additionally, a second study linked OSA to a decline in mental processing powers, particularly in the elderly.
UBCO research proves it’s worth the money to pay for a weight loss program
A UBC Okanagan study found that commercial weight management programs are more effective than DIY approaches in helping people lose weight. Participants who used a commercially available program lost over twice as much weight and had better success rates, including improved blood pressure and waist circumference.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 1, 2022
Insufficient insulin processing leads to overweight
A study by University of Basel researchers found that insufficient insulin production contributes to overweight, challenging the long-held belief that poor nutrition and lack of exercise cause weight gain. The research revealed a key enzyme's role in hormone activation, leading to severe hunger and obesity.
Scripps Research scientists eavesdrop on communication between fat and brain
Researchers have identified a stream of messages between fat tissue and the brain, revealing a previously unknown pathway for adipose tissue to communicate with the brain. The discovery suggests that sensory neurons play a crucial role in regulating fat metabolism and may hold potential for treating obesity and metabolic diseases.
Overweight patients more likely to disagree with their doctors
A study found that overweight patients are more inclined to disagree with their healthcare providers on weight loss and lifestyle advice. Disagreement was particularly pronounced for advice given by doctors on weight and lifestyle issues, with overweight patients more likely to disagree.
Deep brain stimulation shows promise against binge eating disorder, Penn Research finds
A pilot clinical trial found that implanted brain-stimulating devices dramatically reduced bingeing episodes and helped patients lose weight in two patients with loss-of-control binge eating disorder. The study used a device to monitor activity in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region involved in processing pleasure and reward.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 29, 2022
Sugar disrupts microbiome, eliminates protection against obesity and diabetes
A study published in Cell found that a Western-style diet high in sugar alters the gut microbiome, leading to metabolic disease, pre-diabetes, and weight gain. Eliminating sugar from the diet restored the protective effects of Th17 immune cells, which were depleted by the sugar.
Obesity, alcohol use, and decreased blood clotting associated with return to operating room after liver transplant
Research finds that liver transplant recipients with a BMI of 30 or higher and those who drank heavily have a high risk of needing a second surgery within 48 hours. Coagulopathy, or decreased blood clotting, is also linked to this risk. The study aims to reduce the number of return-to-operating-room cases by mitigating these factors.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalThe American Journal of Surgery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 26, 2022
Mapping the brain stem’s control of eating could lead to better treatments for obesity
A new map of brain stem circuits controlling eating behavior could lead to better obesity treatments. The atlas, built from recent discoveries in mice and human studies, identifies two food intake-suppressing circuits in the brain stem, one causing nausea and another not.
Dogs with more active owners may get more exercise
A new international study suggests that dog owners who spend more time exercising themselves tend to exercise their dogs more, leading to a perceived ideal body weight. The study found that feeding practices play a main role in owner perception of their dog being overweight, while exercise practices are crucial for an ideal weight.
Parents adopt unhealthy food routines for family wellbeing in place of unaffordable activities, study finds
A new study suggests that low-income parents in England prioritize unhealthy food over unaffordable family activities to support social wellbeing. The study recommends removing unhealthy food promotions and replacing them with healthier options to retain opportunities for social activity.
Study finds undiagnosed diabetes in U.S. less than half of current estimates
A new study suggests that the true figure of undiagnosed diabetes in the US is significantly lower than current government estimates, with a prevalence rate of around 9.5% of the total diabetes burden. Disparities in access to healthcare and screening contribute to higher rates in older adults, racial/ethnic minorities, and those witho...
New GSA KAER toolkit provides framework for management of obesity in older adults
The new GSA KAER Toolkit provides a framework for primary care teams to address obesity in older adults, focusing on patient-centered care and addressing biases. The toolkit builds on the successful KAER Framework and offers additional resources, including information on getting paid for KAER-based care.
New insights on how some individuals with obesity can lose weight – and keep it off
A new study suggests that exercise training is crucial for individuals with diet-resistant obesity, improving skeletal muscle metabolism and enhancing weight loss capacity. The research challenges the one-size-fits-all approach to treating obesity and has the potential to help reshape the science of weight-loss programs.
SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 11, 2022
Mental health challenges contributed to weight gain for people with obesity during COVID-19
Researchers found that people with obesity gained an average of 4.3% of their body weight during the pandemic, with those reporting high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression experiencing the most weight gain.
Researchers hone in on a hormone that may drive obesity in postmenopausal women
Scientists have found a potential link between follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and postmenopausal obesity, which increases the risk of breast cancer. The study will analyze data from the Women's Health Initiative to understand the relationship between FSH and abdominal obesity.
Down on Vitamin D? It could be the cause of chronic inflammation
A world-first study reveals a direct link between low vitamin D and high inflammation, providing a biomarker for those at risk of chronic illnesses. Boosting vitamin D in people with deficiencies may reduce chronic inflammation.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 7, 2022
Physical activity affects boys and girls differently
A new study has examined the relationship between physical activity and body fat in children, finding that increased body fat leads to less physical activity in boys, while no such link was found for girls. The researchers also found a link between sedentary lifestyle and body fat in boys.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 3, 2022
New national guidelines aim to prevent obesity in midlife women
Middle-aged women are at increased risk of serious health outcomes due to weight gain. New guidelines recommend counseling healthy weight management for all middle-aged women.
Women’s Preventive Services Initiative issues guidelines for preventing obesity in midlife women
The Women's Preventive Services Initiative issues guidelines for preventing obesity in midlife women, recommending counseling on healthy eating and physical activity. The guideline aims to mitigate concerns about weight stigma by normalizing counseling among all midlife women, regardless of BMI status.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 1, 2022
It doesn’t matter much which fiber you choose – just get more fiber!
A new study from Duke University suggests that consuming more fiber can lead to improved gut health, regardless of the specific supplement used. Participants who had been eating the least amount of fiber before the study showed the greatest benefit from supplements.
Chinese Medical Journal review highlights advances in the treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease
Individualized, comprehensive treatment approaches and risk stratification of patients are crucial for effective treatment of MAFLD. Lifestyle modifications and pharmaceutical therapeutics combining to treat the condition.
People with poor sleep behaviors may be at risk for fatty liver disease
A recent study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism has found that people with sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy sleep behaviors are at risk for developing fatty liver disease. Moderate improvement in sleep quality was related to a 29% reduction in the risk for fatty liver disease.
SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 28, 2022
Can math help us understand the gut system of obese people?
The team is creating a virtual gut system to test chemical reactions and networks, which will help identify the best treatments for obesity. The MATOMIC project aims to develop mathematical models that can simulate the intestinal microbiome at an atomic level.
Innovative, online automated obesity treatment program shows weight-loss results
A new study found that a fully-automated online behavioral obesity treatment program led to significant weight loss among participants, with an average 12-week weight loss of 5.10%. The program addressed barriers in primary care, including limited resources and overburdened providers.
Fat build-up in liver (NAFLD) linked to heightened heart failure risk over next decade
A pooled data analysis of 11 international studies found that NAFLD is associated with a 50% heightened risk of developing heart failure. The severity of NAFLD also increases the risk, especially with extensive liver fibrosis.
Bariatric surgery linked to doubling chance of marriage or divorce
A new analysis led by University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health epidemiologists found that adults who undergo bariatric surgery are more than twice as likely to get married within five years. Conversely, married patients who receive bariatric surgery are more than twice as likely to get divorced.
Ultra-processed foods make up almost two-thirds of Britain’s school meals
A study by Imperial College London found that 64% of calories in school lunches come from ultra-processed foods, contributing to childhood obesity. The analysis revealed higher levels of processed foods in packed lunches and secondary school meals, with lower-income children more likely to consume them.
Acidic activated charcoal prevents weight gain and insulin resistance in high-fat diet mice
Research found that acidic activated charcoal from Shinshu Ina's specialty Akamatsu tree suppresses weight gain due to a high-fat diet by increasing bile acid, cholesterol, triglyceride, and fatty acid excretion. No damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa or lungs was observed.
People with low BMI aren’t more active, they are just less hungry and “run hotter”
Researchers found that healthy underweight individuals consume 12% less food and are 23% less active than those with normal BMIs. They also have higher resting metabolic rates, suggesting that low body fat may trump physical activity in downstream consequences.
Emotional patterns a factor in children's food choices
A new study found that children's food choices are influenced by their emotional states, particularly during weekends. Children reported consuming more sweet foods and sugary beverages when stressed or sad.
Prenatal exposure to certain phthalates associated with slightly earlier onset of puberty
A study published in Environmental Research found that prenatal exposure to specific phthalates is associated with a slightly elevated risk of children starting puberty between 7 and 10 years old. Higher prenatal exposure to certain phthalates, such as DEHP, was linked to an increased risk of puberty onset, particularly in normal-weigh...
SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateJul 11, 2022
ASN promotes diversity of research methods to advance nutrition science
The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) emphasizes that all methodologies in nutrition research contribute to the discipline and advance health and well-being. The ASN-commissioned white paper reviews various methodologies used in nutrition research, highlighting their strengths, limitations, and interpretations.
SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 8, 2022
Long term high-fat diet expands waistline and shrinks brain
A long-term high-fat diet has been shown to cause significant weight gain and metabolic disorders in mice, leading to anxiety, depression, and worsening Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests a clear link between chronic obesity and diabetes with cognitive decline.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalMetabolic Brain Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2022
“Unlocking” sarcopenic obesity: A review in portal hypertension & cirrhosis provides clarity on key aspects of disease impact and treatment
Researchers from Tianjin Medical University General Hospital review sarcopenic obesity's impact on liver disease, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis. The study aims to clarify the pathogenesis of sarcopenic obesity and identify potential therapeutic avenues.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalPortal Hypertension & Cirrhosis·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 6, 2022
Daily avocados improve diet quality, help lower cholesterol levels
Eating one avocado a day for six months improved overall diet quality by eight points and slightly decreased LDL cholesterol levels. However, avocados had no effect on belly fat or weight gain in participants with overweight or obesity.
SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 5, 2022
Peptide with anti-obesity action is successfully tested in animal trial
A recent study published in International Journal of Molecular Sciences reports the successful testing of Pep19, a synthetic peptide with anti-obesity action. The molecule was found to mitigate weight gain while reducing insulin resistance and liver fattiness in mice fed a high-fat diet.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateJul 5, 2022
A rhythmic small intestinal microbiome prevents obesity and type 2 diabetes
A study published in Cell Reports found that a rhythmic small intestinal microbiome prevents obesity and type 2 diabetes in mice. The researchers used mouse models to explore how diet and feeding patterns affect the gut microbiome and its impact on host health, particularly with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Molecule boosts fat burning
A new molecule, inosine, has been identified as a key booster of fat burning through activation of brown fat cells. Studies have shown that inosine can increase energy consumption and protect against diabetes in mice fed high-energy diets.
1930s ‘redlining’ connected to poor health outcomes today
A new study reveals that areas once 'redlined' in the 1930s continue to suffer from higher rates of cardiometabolic health risk factors, including obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Neighborhoods with lower grades on historical redlining maps had better access to healthcare and lower rates of disease.
SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 5, 2022
Only seven percent of adults have good cardiometabolic health
A study by Tufts researchers found that only 6.8% of US adults had optimal levels of blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, adiposity, and cardiovascular disease in 2017-2018. The prevalence of these conditions worsened significantly between 1999 and 2018, with large disparities across sex, age, race, ethnicity, and education levels.
SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 4, 2022
THE LANCET DIABETES & ENDO.: COVID-19 vaccine protects people of all body weights from hospitalization and death, study of 9 million adults in England suggests
A recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduced severe disease cases across all BMI groups. Vaccine effectiveness was slightly lower in underweight individuals, but substantial reductions in risk were observed for those with healthy weights and higher BMIs.
SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2022
Knee replacement surgery decreased after NHS policies on patient’s weight were introduced, worsening health inequalities, study finds
New research reveals NHS weight policies are associated with a decline in knee replacement surgery rates, disproportionately affecting less affluent groups. The study found that regions introducing BMI-based policies saw a decrease in surgery, potentially worsening health inequalities.
No more binge eating: Signal pathway in the brain that controls food intake discovered
Researchers identify AgRP neurons as key players in regulating food intake by releasing endogenous lysophospholipids, which stimulate cerebral cortex activity. Administering autotaxin inhibitors can significantly reduce excessive food intake and obesity in animal models.
Cold temps may help to combat obesity and related metabolic diseases by reducing inflammation, researchers find
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center and Brigham and Women's Hospital found that cold exposure can resolve obesity-induced inflammation while improving insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in diet-induced obese mice. Brown adipose tissue is activated to produce anti-inflammatory molecules, including Maresin 2.
Cardiovascular risk factors and low physical fitness associated with decline in social cognitive functions
Research reveals associations between cardiovascular risk factors, low physical fitness, and decreased neural activity in the social brain network, leading to social cognitive function decline. A healthy lifestyle may mitigate this decline through targeted interventions.
SourceKobe University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2022
As US obesity epidemic grows, new study shows who is gaining weight over the last decade
A new study reveals that more than half of American adults gained 5% or more body weight over a 10-year period, while women and Black women experienced the greatest average weight gain. The study's findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address obesity in high-risk groups.
Chinese Medical Journal review discusses an interesting weight-loss surgery procedure
A narrative review of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) highlights its potential as a minimally invasive weight loss procedure. The review concludes that ESG induces significant weight loss and improves obesity-related conditions, with the technique's success attributed to delayed gastric emptying. Researchers support the use of ESG...
Light during sleep in older adults linked to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure
A study of 552 older adults found that those exposed to light during sleep were significantly more likely to develop obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes. The study suggests that minimizing light exposure at night can help prevent these conditions.