Research on obesity, its causes, and its treatment. Covers GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, diet, metabolic health, treatment guidelines, and obesity in children.
Researchers found genetic peptides called alpha-defensins that shape gut bacteria, producing healthier microbiomes and reducing insulin resistance. This discovery suggests personalized treatments can be tailored to individual genes, offering new hope for addressing chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes.
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...
High consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with higher levels of systemic inflammation and a greater risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that individuals who consumed the most ultra-processed foods had significantly higher levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, a key marker of inflammation.
A cohort study shows bariatric surgery significantly lowers major metabolic comorbidity risk compared to medical weight management. The procedure is deemed a durable approach for obesity-related risk mitigation.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that semaglutide reduced both cocaine use and relapse in rats, with motivation to keep taking cocaine decreasing by 52%. The study suggests that semaglutide may blunt cocaine's ability to raise dopamine levels in the brain.
Dr. Steven B. Heymsfield joins an elite group of scholars recognized for advancing knowledge and transforming their fields. He has authored over 1,300 scientific publications with nearly 79,000 citations, placing him among the top 500 most-cited researchers globally.
IRB Barcelona researchers discovered a new strategy to combat obesity by activating brown fat, boosting energy expenditure and improving metabolic health. The approach, driven by Neuritin 1 protein, increased energy burning without affecting food intake or physical activity.
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.
A new hypothesis proposes that transformation of adipokine molecules in excess internal fat tissue is the primary cause of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Drugs targeting fat tissue, not the heart, can alleviate HFpEF symptoms.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover a new microprotein, SLC35A4-MP, that regulates mitochondrial structure and function in brown fat tissue. The study reveals the microprotein's role in maintaining healthy cellular metabolism and regulating body temperature.
A new study found that 14% of bariatric surgery patients use GLP-1 weight loss drugs, with higher rates among those who underwent sleeve gastrectomy and experienced lower post-operative weight loss. The rate of GLP-1 use increased as more powerful drugs became available.
A new study found that treatment of heart failure patients with GLP-1 receptor agonists reduces hospitalizations, calorie intake, and greenhouse gas emissions. The study estimates a potential annual CO2-equivalent saving of over 2 billion kilograms, equivalent to 20,000 Boeing 747 flights.
A new study suggests that being overweight (BMI 25–29.9) may actually be protective in the short term after surgery for older adults, with a 0.8% 30-day all-cause mortality rate compared to 18.8% for those with normal BMI.
A large Spanish multicenter clinical trial found that a calorie-reduced Mediterranean diet combined with moderate exercise reduces type 2 diabetes risk by 31%. The intervention group also lost weight and reduced waist circumference, preventing approximately three in every 100 participants from developing the disease.
Researchers designed an ideal primary care visit scenario that emphasizes patient-centered communication, respect, and inclusivity. A survey of 250 adults with obesity found that most preferred this approach, citing doctors who listen attentively and treat weight issues sensitively.
A recent study found that large portions of obesity-related conditions in US adolescents and young adults are attributable to obesity. Treating and preventing obesity may reduce these conditions and associated costs. The researchers emphasize the importance of addressing childhood obesity to prevent future health issues.
A new study found that excessive visceral fat is linked to faster ageing of the heart, with a genetic predisposition to female-type fat in women potentially slowing heart ageing. Researchers also discovered that artificial intelligence analysis of images revealed signs of organ ageing, including tissue stiffness and inflammation.
A retrospective cohort study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists may reduce overall cancer risk, including lower risks of endometrial and ovarian cancers, among patients with obesity or overweight. However, these medications may also increase the risk of kidney cancer, highlighting the need for longer-term follow-up.
A new imaging approach allows researchers to visualize how dual-acting diabetes and obesity drugs like tirzepatide interact with cells in the pancreas and brain. The tool, called daLUXendins, provides insight into the metabolic effects triggered by these drugs, which stimulate both GLP-1R and GIPR receptors.
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the amylin hormone, which controls appetite and blood sugar. Their findings provide new tools for drug development, enabling pharmaceutical companies to target specific receptors with greater precision.
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.
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.
A new study suggests that using glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) before surgery can help control blood sugar and support weight loss, potentially improving surgical outcomes. The medication was not associated with increased risk in 12 studies reporting postoperative outcomes.
The updated Canadian Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guideline recommends a personalized approach to treating obesity, focusing on waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and waist-to-height ratio. Two new medications, tirzepatide and setmelanotide, are included in the guideline for managing obesity-related complications.
Researchers at the University of Graz and the University of California, San Diego have developed a novel method to determine omega positions of lipids in complex biological samples. This breakthrough enables the study of biological mechanisms in unprecedented detail, particularly for inflammation-related diseases.
Researchers found that individuals with a mutation in the TTN gene are 21 times more likely to develop dilated cardiomyopathy than those without. Lifestyle factors such as being overweight or having high alcohol consumption contribute to an earlier diagnosis, and men with the mutation are more likely to develop DCM at a younger age.
Researchers found that maternal obesity prior to pregnancy can program long-term neurodevelopmental trajectories in children through epigenetic alterations. This led to autistic-like behaviors in male mice, correlating with altered gene regulation in the cortex and hippocampus.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified dozens of microproteins that play a crucial role in regulating fat cell proliferation and lipid accumulation. This breakthrough discovery offers new potential drug targets for treating obesity and metabolic disorders, building on recent advances in CRISPR gene editing technologies.
A study of over 452,000 adults found that metformin users had significantly lower risks of dementia and all-cause death compared to non-users. The benefits were seen across all categories of overweight and obesity, with reduced risks of up to 26% for death.
According to a RAND report, nearly 12% of Americans have used GLP-1 weight loss medications, with women between 50-64 years old making up about one-fifth of this group. The survey also found that half of those who have used the drugs experience nausea as a side effect, while one-third experience diarrhea.
A Korean survey of over 50,000 middle and high school students found that adolescent girls with weight concerns are at higher risk for depression and suicidality. The study highlights the importance of addressing body image issues in young females to prevent mental health problems.
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.
A study published by the University of Leipzig found that adults with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) who have a higher body weight are at risk of malnutrition and related health issues. The research also highlighted the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies for this overlooked population.
A clinical trial found that participants who followed a minimally processed diet lost twice as much weight compared to those on an ultra-processed diet. The study suggests that cutting down on processing can help sustain a healthy weight long term.
A study published in PLOS found that urban exposure significantly increases the risk of obesity among middle and old-age migrants in India. The longer they stay in cities, the greater the risk of obesity.
Research reveals obesity's role in cancer development through mechanisms like chronic inflammation, hormonal disorders, and microbial dysbiosis. Lifestyle changes and targeted treatments hold potential in preventing obesity-related cancers.
A new study suggests that marbling of fat inside muscles is a strong indicator of poor health, including obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and neuromuscular disorders. The research found that intramuscular fat acts as a physical barrier obstructing muscle healing and regeneration.
Researchers from FAU's Schmidt College of Medicine recommend using high-potency statins as the primary pharmacologic approach in treating and preventing cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity and a healthy diet, are also crucial in reducing cardiovascular risk.
Researchers found that high body-fat percentage was strongly linked to increased mortality risk from any cause and heart disease. In contrast, overweight/obese BMI was not associated with a higher risk of death.
A new study led by Texas A&M University found that popular sporting group breeds are more likely to be motivated by food, while owners in urban environments and with multiple dogs are also at risk. The study emphasizes the importance of tailored weight management strategies for dogs and their families.
A new proposed definition of obesity that considers health factors beyond height and weight would significantly reduce the prevalence of obesity worldwide. However, this change may hinder the prevention and early detection of serious health conditions, highlighting concerns over its implementation.
The Obesity Society has appointed a new CEO, Sherlyn Celone-Arnold, and several key experts to its leadership team, enhancing its commitment to addressing obesity through innovative strategies and expert guidance.
A study found that SARS-CoV-2 infection caused different long-term consequences in lean and obese macaques, with obesity increasing risks like persistent lung damage. Lean animals also experienced signs of metabolic disruption, suggesting long COVID may be more common than reported.
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.
Research warns that GLP-1 drugs may not provide the long-term health benefit of improved heart and lung function. While they help with weight loss, patients may experience significant muscle loss, which can increase cardiovascular disease risk. Doctors are urging additional research to better understand the effects of these drugs.
A new study identified neurobeachin as a genetic predictor of weight loss response to GLP-1RAs. The findings have the potential to advance obesity care and provide more effective, personalized treatment options.
A new genetic test can predict adulthood obesity in early childhood, allowing for targeted preventative strategies. The test was developed using data from over five million people and found to be twice as effective as previous tests at predicting obesity risk.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) treatment was associated with reduced all-cause mortality among older patients with cancer and type 2 diabetes. The survival benefit persisted across various subgroups, including age, sex, and cancer type.
A new study published in PNAS suggests that diet rather than idleness is the primary driver of obesity worldwide. The research analyzed data from over 4,200 adults across 34 populations and found a correlation between higher caloric intake and increased body fat percentage.
The study found a significant increase in extremely severe obesity among US children and adolescents, leading to severe metabolic and cardiovascular complications. Extremely severe obesity was linked to conditions like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, prediabetes or diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
A cohort study found that GLP-1RAs like semaglutide and tirzepatide lower risk of dementia, stroke, and all-cause mortality in adults with type 2 diabetes and obesity. The findings suggest potential neuroprotective benefits beyond glycemic control.
Researchers have discovered a high representation of genes associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes in RNA cargo within extracellular vesicles. The study provides a roadmap for integrating EV transcript profiling with genetic approaches, which could inform the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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...
A new study found that anti-obesity medications can normalize testosterone levels in men with obesity or type 2 diabetes. This positive effect on reproductive health was observed after a 10% weight loss, with total and free testosterone levels increasing by 24%.
Despite supply shortages and insurance coverage obstacles, patients taking GLP-1 medications achieve clinically significant weight loss when paired with intensive lifestyle interventions. The study found that consistent medication courses combined with lifestyle changes and support remain the most effective weight-loss program option.
A new study found that obesity rates in Canada increased faster after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially among younger adults and females. The prevalence of obesity measured by BMI rose at a greater rate during the 4 years following the pandemic's onset compared to the previous 11 years.
Cancer deaths linked to obesity have increased sharply in the US, especially among women and older adults, with sharp regional disparities. The study highlights the need for targeted public health strategies to address this growing public health crisis.
A new study found that intermittent energy restriction significantly improved fasting blood glucose and triglycerides, while also increasing insulin sensitivity. The IER group showed the greatest advantages in reducing these markers compared to time-restricted eating and continuous energy restriction groups.
An animal study found that early-life exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals can alter the brain's pathways controlling reward preference and eating behavior. Male rats showed a temporary preference for sugary solutions, while female rats gained weight after preferring high-fat food.
A small study found that consuming more protein may help prevent muscle loss in adults with obesity taking semaglutide, an anti-obesity medication. The researchers noted that older adults and women may be at higher risk for muscle loss, emphasizing the importance of preserving muscle during weight loss with this medication.