Research on obesity, its causes, and its treatment. Covers GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, diet, metabolic health, treatment guidelines, and obesity in children.
A global review of 121 randomised trials involving nearly 10,000 adults found herbal and dietary supplements show statistically greater weight loss but not enough to benefit health. The authors call for more research into long-term safety due to lack of clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness.
A study found that women who conceive within 12 months of bariatric surgery are at a higher risk of adverse outcomes in pregnancy, including lower gestational age and neonatal birth weights. Inadequate gestational weight gain was also linked to increased preterm births.
A study by Uppsala University found that bullying is a greater risk factor than overweight for developing depressive symptoms in both girls and boys. However, boys' mental health is more affected if they suffer from obesity, with a five-fold higher risk of having depressive symptoms in 2015 compared to normal-weight boys.
A recent study found that obesity, particularly class II and III, is associated with a higher risk of death, severe pneumonia, and intubation in both men and women with COVID-19. However, the association was stronger in men than women, suggesting that obesity may be a more significant risk factor for death from COVID-19 in men.
A new study by University of Copenhagen researchers reveals the key to maintaining long-term weight loss in people with obesity. Combining moderate-intensity exercise with appetite-inhibiting medication yields significant health benefits, including reduced blood sugar levels, improved fitness ratings, and muscle mass preservation.
A study published in Women's Health found that the pandemic significantly increased stress levels among mothers with preschoolers, leading to reduced sleep, physical activity, and a higher risk for obesity and poor health. The researchers recommend providing reliable childcare options and support systems to help mothers balance work an...
A new study suggests that inhibiting GKN1, a stomach-specific protein, can lead to significant weight loss and reduced body fat in mice. The researchers found that models without GKN1 had improved metabolism and resistance to weight gain on high-fat diets.
Intellihealth, a medical obesity treatment platform co-founded by Dr. Katherine Saunders, was selected as the first winner of the Women at Weill investment competition. The company's software platform Evolve generates personalized treatment plans for patients and is integrated with Epic, a widely-used electronic health record system.
A new study reveals that higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with worse survival in early breast cancer patients but improved survival in advanced disease. The 'obesity paradox' highlights the need to understand the biological basis of obesity impacts on breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A recent study found that obesity and a high-salt diet are bigger risks for females, who are more sensitive to salt and have naturally higher levels of hormones like leptin and aldosterone. This can lead to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular disease in young women.
A diet high in pro-inflammatory foods may be associated with increased odds of developing testosterone deficiency among men. Men who consume refined carbohydrates and sugar, as well as polyunsaturated fats, are more likely to experience low libido, decreased energy, and depression.
Researchers identified two dietary patterns associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death in middle-age. The first pattern includes high intakes of chocolate, confectionary, butter, and white bread, while the second is characterized by high sugar-sweetened beverages, fruit juice, and preserves.
International research found that obese and overweight COVID-19 patients require more oxygen and invasive ventilation, but show no increased risk of death. Chronic inflammation and shortness of breath are linked to increased severity in these patients.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that underweight and overweight women are significantly more likely to experience recurrent miscarriages due to their abnormal Body Mass Index. The research highlights the importance of weight management in reducing the risk of repeated pregnancy losses.
Researchers at CNIO discover that digoxin, a drug used for heart diseases, reduces inflammation and leads to significant weight loss in obese mice. The study identifies IL-17A as a causal factor of obesity, suggesting a potential therapeutic option for treating the inflammatory disease.
Scientists have discovered how a unique molecular switch in the brain causes feelings of fullness and may help develop improved anti-obesity drugs. The melanocortin receptor 4 is activated by setmelanotide, which binds to its binding pocket and enhances binding with calcium ions.
A study of 264,230 individuals found that UK adults who are overweight or obese retain their weight over time, associated with an increased risk of health complications and death. The researchers also found greater levels of socioeconomic deprivation linked to increasing severity of obesity.
A study by Penn State researchers found that supplementing high-fat-fed mice with cocoa powder reduced the severity of their liver disease and improved markers of oxidative stress. The researchers suggest that similar benefits may be achieved in humans through dietary changes, but caution against overconsumption.
Researchers suggest reducing food waste in various settings, including schools, homes, and restaurants, while promoting healthy nutrition. Strategies include implementing behavioral cues, reusing leftovers, and developing cooking education curricula for low-income households.
A study published in Nature Metabolism reveals that vascular smooth muscle-derived Trpv1+ progenitors are a source of cold-induced energy-burning brown fat cells. This finding could lead to the development of new therapies targeting obesity and metabolic disorders by increasing overall energy expenditure.
Researchers found obesity reduces mitochondrial function in fat tissue, leading to proinflammatory state and increased risk of diseases like diabetes and liver disease. Muscle tissue also shows decreased mitochondrial function, but to a lesser extent.
A study published in the Journal of Endocrinology found an association between higher body weight and greater menstrual blood loss, potentially due to delayed womb lining repair. The research used a combined approach of human and mouse studies, suggesting obesity may contribute to heavier periods through increased inflammation.
A University of Gothenburg study found a significant increase in heart failure and stroke cases among men under 40 in Sweden, attributed to rising obesity rates and declining physical fitness. The study monitored over 1.2 million men for 20 years, revealing a sharp decline in heart attacks despite increasing obesity.
A recent study published in Nutrients investigated the influence of exercise on food intake. The results showed that physical activity increased the amount and urgency of food consumption, particularly after exercise. This finding highlights the importance of considering post-exercise eating habits for optimal weight loss.
The American Gastroenterological Association has released new clinical guidelines recommending the use of intragastric balloons for patients with obesity who have not been able to lose weight with traditional strategies. The treatment is most successful when combined with lifestyle modifications and pharmacological agents, and can be u...
A study published in Radiology found that chest CT scans can assess body composition and predict mortality risk in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Higher intermuscular fat was linked to higher mortality rates, while subcutaneous adipose tissue was associated with lower risks.
A new study by UBC Sauder School of Business found that people with obesity tend to be more responsive to food marketing, but when their weight drops significantly, so does their responsiveness. After significant weight loss, people become less responsive to marketing, making it more sustainable to remain at a lower body mass index.
Researchers discover adolescent adipose tissue differs from adult white fat in terms of precursor cell properties. Modulating Asc-1 function may help obese patients maintain a healthy metabolism and delay obesity treatment.
Research at Joslin Diabetes Center found that exercise in pregnancy boosts SOD3, a protein linked to glucose metabolism, and improves metabolic health in offspring. Vitamin D also plays a critical role in this process.
A study published in eLife found that selenium supplementation protects against diet-induced obesity in mice, reducing levels of energy-regulating hormones IGF-1 and leptin. The researchers also observed increased healthspan in yeast grown under selenium-supplemented conditions.
A long-term study published in PLOS ONE found that bariatric surgery does not increase the risk of colorectal cancer in obese individuals. After a median follow-up period of 22 years, there were 57 cases of colorectal cancer in the surgery group and 67 in the control group, suggesting no association between the two.
Researchers found that total knee replacement is a cost-effective treatment option for patients with severe knee osteoarthritis and extreme obesity. The procedure leads to substantial increases in quality-adjusted life expectancy for these patients.
A cost-effectiveness analysis found that total knee replacement surgery is a viable option for patients with extreme obesity and end-stage osteoarthritis, offering significant improvements in quality-adjusted life expectancy. The study concluded that TKR leads to substantial benefits in these patients, outweighing potential complications.
A recent study presented at ENDO 2021 found that women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) who are obese have a more than three-fold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes during their lifetime. The risk was not observed in normal-weight women with PCOS.
A study published in The Endocrine Society's annual meeting found that genetic risk factors for PCOS are associated with obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and male-pattern baldness in men. This suggests that at least some cases of PCOS may be caused by biological mechanisms common to both men and women.
Semaglutide treatment leads to reduced excess body fat and increased lean body mass in adults with obesity. The medication has the potential to reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke by improving body composition. The STEP 1 trial found that semaglutide significantly improved body weight loss and reduced visceral fat.
A recent study found that hospitalized COVID-19 patients with obesity have a significantly higher rate of ICU admissions and longer duration of ICU stay. Individuals with severe obesity were twice as likely to require ICU care, while the risk of death was not significantly higher in those with obesity.
A new study from the University of Bath found that the sugar tax in Catalonia, Spain led to a modest reduction in calorie intake, with households cutting purchases of high-sugar beverages and increasing lower-sugar options. The average reduction was only 2.2% and spread out over 3.7 calories per month.
A pooled data analysis of 31 clinical trials found that wearable fitness trackers and step counters significantly helped people with weight-related health conditions lose weight. Those using research-grade step counters/accelerometers lost an average of 4.4 kg, while commercial fitness trackers produced a 3 kg loss.
A new study of UK Biobank participants found slow walkers have over twice the risk of contracting a severe version of COVID-19 and are almost four times more likely to die from the virus. The analysis examined body mass index (BMI) and self-reported walking pace with the risk of contracting severe COVID-19 and COVID-19 mortality.
A study found lifestyle interventions reduced cardiovascular harm and optimized benefits for 85% of participants. However, it increased the risk of major cardiovascular events in those with poor blood sugar control, suggesting alternative options like glucose-lowering drugs may be necessary.
A study found that family members of patients following the Mediterranean diet-based PREDIMED-Plus program experienced significant weight loss, averaging almost 4 kg over two years. Improved dietary habits were also observed, with family members showing increased commitment to the Mediterranean diet.
Women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) have a greater risk of premature mortality, including cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related deaths. A new study found that GHTN and preeclampsia were associated with a 42% increase in premature mortality, while women with HDP had an over two-fold higher risk of premature...
Higher obesity rates in Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) can be attributed to systemic racism, according to a new perspective article. The authors offer a 10-point strategy to study and solve the public health issues responsible for this disparity.
Researchers found that participants with obesity and food insecurity lost less weight than their food-secure counterparts over a 24-month period, despite following an intensive lifestyle-based intervention. The study highlights the need for weight loss approaches that address both obesity and food insecurity.
A high-fat diet is associated with increased risk of late-onset colorectal cancer, particularly in obese female mice. The study reveals that excess body weight leads to tumor growth through inflammation, insulin-like growth factor release, and polarization of macrophages.
A new study published in The Lancet found that patients with type 2 diabetes treated with Semaglutide achieved significant weight loss and improved blood glucose control. Two-thirds of patients lost at least 5% of their body weight, while over a quarter lost more than 15%.
A recent international study found that semaglutide, an injectable medication, is effective in reducing weight and treating obesity in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The study showed significant weight loss results, with over 25% of participants achieving a 10% or greater weight loss.
Researchers discovered five proteins associated with neutrophil activation that can predict severe COVID-19 outcomes. These biomarkers are elevated in patients who later require ICU admission or die from the virus.
A team of researchers has identified genes linked to both high body fat and protection from negative health impacts of obesity. The findings shed new light on the biology behind this disconnect, offering potential targets for therapies that lower diabetes and heart disease risk.
A randomized clinical trial examines the effectiveness of subcutaneous semaglutide as an adjunct to intensive behavioral therapy for weight management. Semaglutide was found to lead to greater weight loss and improved body mass index compared to placebo in adults with overweight or obesity.
A systematic review of randomized controlled studies found that digital self-monitoring using digital health tools was associated with significant weight loss. Digital tools, including apps, wearables, and websites, were used to track behaviors such as diet and physical activity.
A research team has discovered a metabolic footprint associated with the perception of satiety, revealing that higher concentrations of glycine and linoleic acid are linked to increased satiety. The study involved 140 volunteers with overweight and obesity, showing that certain metabolites in the blood can predict postprandial satiety.
A recent study suggests that targeting a specific protein called eIF4E can reduce weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. The researchers found that these mice stored less fat and had improved liver health compared to their counterparts. Additionally, the modified mice showed enhanced lipid metabolism, allowing them to burn more fat.
Research found that morning exercise was associated with higher risks of developing coronary heart disease in men, while midday exercise had lower cardiorespiratory fitness levels. The study suggests that timing of physical activity may play a role in cardiovascular health outcomes for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
A recent study published in Social Psychology and Personality Science found that women with abdominal fat are more stigmatized than those with gluteofemoral fat. The research team also discovered that body shape plays a significant role in driving fat stigma, regardless of weight or ethnicity.
Researchers found a significant link between prolonged sedentary time and decreased ability to focus on tasks despite distractions. Adults with obesity or overweight who spent more time sitting for extended periods showed poorer performance on executive function tests.
Researchers used a novel 3D microscopy technique to study crownlike structures in adipose tissue, finding they are actually concentric spheres surrounding an empty core. This discovery may lead to new treatments for obesity-related diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disorders.
A UTEP professor's study discovered a specific area of the brain linked to recollection and desire for food, which could inhibit overeating. The research found that regulating this brain region reduced animal subjects' consumption of treats.
A genetic study found that increased Polynesian ancestry is linked to a higher risk of obesity, Type-2 diabetes, and heart failure in Native Hawaiians. The study suggests both genetic and lifestyle factors contribute to these disease risks.