Articles tagged with Obesity
A new UCLA study found that individuals between 60-69 years old experienced significant increases in disabilities, including basic activities, instrumental activities, mobility, and functional limitations. This trend is concerning as it may put a burden on the healthcare system and boost health costs.
A study published in Neurology found that teenage women who are obese may be more than twice as likely to develop multiple sclerosis as adult women compared to female teens who are not obese. Weight during adolescence, rather than childhood or adulthood, is critical in determining the risk of MS.
A one-year study found that participants on a low-fat diet experienced improved mood and well-being compared to those on a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet. The study suggests that the low-carb diet may have detrimental effects on mood due to its structured nature and potential social challenges.
A prospective study found obesity and hypertension to be independent predictors of left atrial enlargement, increasing the risk of atrial fibrillation, stroke, and death. Obesity was associated with greater increases in left atrial volume and incidence of LAE compared to hypertension.
The energy gap concept estimates the change in energy balance required to achieve and sustain reduced body weight outcomes. Researchers suggest that small changes of 100 kcal/day can prevent weight regain in most adults, but larger gaps of 200-300 kcal/day are needed for maintenance.
Research by Michigan State University's Barbara Luke found that obese women are 28% less likely to become pregnant and have a successful pregnancy. Women who are overweight also face a 14% lower chance of a successful pregnancy. The study analyzed nearly 50,000 women using assisted reproductive technology.
The 'energy gap' concept suggests that small behavior changes, such as eating 100 less calories per day, are effective in preventing further weight gain. This approach must be included in public health strategies and policies to address obesity.
Researchers have discovered that saturated fatty acids can 'anger' the immune system by hijacking Toll-like receptor 4 (Tlr4) on blood cells, leading to chronic inflammation. This interaction may be the key to understanding obesity-related metabolic consequences, and a new class of insulin sensitizers is being explored.
A new study finds that obesity and diabetes increase the risk of chest pain and skin reactions after stereotactic body radiation therapy. Patients who receive a high dose of radiation to cancer close to the chest wall are more likely to experience these side effects, highlighting the need for further research into reducing radiation-re...
A study found that sustained modest weight loss can prevent or lower the incidence of type 2 diabetes in people at high risk, delaying diagnosis by about four years. Lifestyle changes also improved cardiovascular risk factors and were particularly beneficial among older adults.
Despite concerns about decreased physical activity contributing to rising obesity rates, research suggests that physical activity levels may actually be increasing among US adolescents. While minority students and girls are less active than their peers, sedentary behaviors like screen time remain a concern.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a previously unknown gene in fruit flies that controls fat metabolism. The gene, called 'schlank', is structurally similar to genes found in humans and may play a role in energy metabolism. Introducing mouse Lass genes into mutant flies showed promise for new obesity treatments.
A University of Pittsburgh study finds a connection between adolescent girls' weight and their participation in risky sexual behaviors. The research suggests that ethnicity, actual weight, or perceived weight may influence decision-making around sex.
Researchers found that intensive lifestyle changes reduced the rate of developing type 2 diabetes in people at high risk by 34 percent over 10 years. Lifestyle changes also lowered blood pressure and triglyceride levels in patients.
A decade-long study found that intensive lifestyle changes reduced the rate of developing type 2 diabetes by 34 percent compared to placebo, resulting in a delay of about four years. In contrast, treatment with metformin reduced the risk by 18 percent after 10 years.
Researchers will develop a computer simulation model to predict the effects of prenatal risk factors like obesity and diabetes on infant health in African-American, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic white populations. The study aims to identify potential disparities in disease development and continuation across ethnic groups.
Research from University of Rhode Island found that chewing gum decreases calorie intake at lunch by 68 calories. Participants also reported feeling less hungry after chewing gum. Additionally, gum chewing increased energy expenditure before and after eating, with a 5% increase in both cases.
The study found that cardiorespiratory fitness declines more rapidly after age 45, with men experiencing a greater decline than women. Maintaining a healthy BMI, being physically active, and not smoking are associated with higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness throughout adult life.
A study found that living near a variety of restaurants and supermarkets lowers the risk of obesity. In contrast, residents who live far from any food outlets are more likely to be overweight. The researchers also found that access to healthy grocery options in low-income neighborhoods significantly reduces obesity rates.
Research reveals that Caucasian college women are more likely to exhibit binge eating behaviors than African American women. The study found that African-American students were less likely to meet criteria for binge eating and had less severe symptoms, but shared similar predictors such as depressed mood and feelings of fat. This dispa...
A large study found that obese patients with established cardiovascular disease are less likely to reach recommended targets for blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Obesity was also associated with poorer control of HDL levels, but not LDL-cholesterol targets.
In the study, participants on liraglutide lost significantly more weight than those on placebo and orlistat. Liraglutide also reduced blood pressure and improved prediabetes rates with all doses.
A Kaiser Permanente study of 1,656 obese women found that nearly three-quarters gained too much weight during pregnancy and retained an average of 40% of the weight one year after delivery. Younger women and first-time mothers were most likely to gain excessive weight.
The study, funded by a $2.2 million grant, will enroll 180 obese pregnant women and test a weight maintenance program with weekly support groups. Preliminary results are expected in three years, aiming to show that obese women who maintain their weight will have better outcomes.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers suggests that physicians have less respect for obese patients, with higher BMI associated with lower levels of respect. The findings raise questions about whether physician attitudes towards obesity impact patient care and health outcomes.
A University of Florida study found that eating more plant-based foods can prevent oxidative stress associated with obesity and disease. By incorporating colorful, low-calorie foods like leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables into meals, individuals may be able to control caloric intake and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
New research reveals how diet affects brain chemistry, influencing behavior and physiological changes related to obesity. Studies show that high-fat diets can lead to addictive-like behaviors, reduced insulin sensitivity, and impaired brain development in offspring.
A randomized, double-blind trial found that mangosteen juice lowered C-reactive protein levels by 1.33mg/L in obese participants. The natural treatment was safe at all dosages tested and showed promise as a potential therapeutic option for reducing inflammation and cardiovascular risk.
Researchers at Miriam Hospital's Weight Control and Diabetes Research Center are studying various approaches to prevent and treat obesity, including behavioral interventions and gene-based research. These studies aim to develop innovative strategies to curb the obesity epidemic and its devastating health consequences.
A study found that overweight women's self-esteem decreases when exposed to thin models, while underweight women's esteem increases regardless of model size. Comparably, overweight and underweight women showed similar levels of self-esteem when not looking at models.
Excess weight increases severity of oxygen desaturation in individuals with sleep-disordered breathing during and after apneas and hypopneas. BMI predicts degree of oxygen depletion associated with SDB events.
Rajiv Kumar, a medical student from Rhode Island, has been awarded the Community Health Leaders Award for his work to reduce obesity among Rhode Islanders. Over 35,000 participants have taken part in his Shape Up RI program, losing thousands of pounds and walking millions of miles.
The UK is launching seven new research projects to combat obesity and heart disease, using a combination of public and private sector funding. Researchers will explore the role of probiotics, polyphenols, and cognition in diet-related health issues.
A new study by RAND Corporation finds that restricting fast-food chain restaurants in South Los Angeles may not address the main reasons for high obesity rates. The region's dense small food stores and high-calorie snack availability contribute more to residents' diets than fast-food establishments.
A study of 8,500 low-income children ages 1-5 found an association between household food insecurity and overweight prevalence. Food-insecure households were more prevalent among girls under 2 years old, but not boys; however, among girls aged 2-5, those from food-insecure households had a 47% higher odds of being overweight.
A new study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers found that overweight women in mid-life had more health problems and impaired cognitive function later in life. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout adulthood may increase the odds of enjoying a healthy life in later years, according to the study.
Researchers found that obesity did not lead to knee osteoarthritis in mice with leptin deficiency. Leptin hormone levels were high in obese individuals, but the study suggests it may protect against OA development. Further studies on leptin's role in preventing knee OA are recommended.
A new Duke University study has found that leptin plays a crucial role in determining whether obese mice develop arthritis, regardless of their weight. The absence of leptin was shown to prevent osteoarthritis in obese mice, with healthier joint appearance compared to normal control mice.
A $5.2 million NIH grant will fund detailed genotyping of thousands of adults in Samoa to investigate genetic variation associated with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study aims to identify specific 'susceptibility' genes that may increase the risk of these conditions.
A Temple-led study of 264 obese patients with type 2 diabetes found that those who lost 10% of their body weight nearly eliminated sleep apnea episodes, compared to those who did not lose weight. The results suggest that weight loss can have a significant impact on reducing the disorder and improving overall health.
Researchers found that nearly half of young adult women met the criteria for depression, obesity, or alcohol abuse at multiple time points. The study also discovered a significant link between obesity and depression in women, with those experiencing weight issues more likely to report depression later on.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center used magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to measure pancreatic fat in humans, finding a significant correlation between fat content and diabetes risk. The study suggests that measuring pancreatic fat could be an effective clinical tool for identifying high-risk individuals.
A new study found that people tend to mimic their thin companion's portion sizes, but adjust their behavior when they think their friend is obese. Eating with someone of the same weight as oneself has little impact on food choices.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh discovered that invadolysin, a protein present in all cells, is linked to lipid droplets used for fat storage. Lower levels of invadolysin were found to be associated with reduced fat deposits, suggesting its potential role in obesity and related complications.
A study published by the American Society of Nephrology found that weight loss through diet and exercise can reduce proteinuria and slow down kidney function decline in obese patients with kidney disease. Surgical interventions also show promise in normalizing kidney filtration rates.
Researchers are investigating the impact of low-level inflammation on skeletal muscle in obese individuals. They aim to determine how obesity affects muscle synthesis and breakdown, and whether an insulin-sensitising drug can reverse these effects.
A new study reveals a molecular circuit involving heme that helps maintain proper metabolism in the body, providing insights into metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes. The research identifies Rev-erbα as a key player in regulating heme levels, which is crucial for maintaining energy balance.
A new study led by Queen's University aims to clarify Canadian exercise guidelines, which suggest 20-30 minutes of vigorous activity or 45-60 minutes of walking for health benefits. The research will investigate the specific type, amount, pattern, and intensity of exercise needed to achieve optimal results.
The US has reached a critical point on obesity, with 72 million adults affected. Health reform that directly addresses obesity is crucial to saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
Researchers found that 4 weeks of aerobic cycling exercise reduced hepatic triglyceride concentration and visceral adipose tissue volume in obese individuals, leading to lower risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This study suggests that regular physical activity can benefit liver health without relying on weight loss.
A study by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center researchers found that obesity, alcohol use, and smoking significantly increase the risk of second breast cancer in survivors. The study suggests reducing weight, quitting smoking, and drinking in moderation to lower this risk.
A Northwestern University study found that eating at irregular times influences weight gain, with the body's circadian rhythms playing a significant role. The research suggests that modifying meal timing alone can greatly affect body weight, potentially combating obesity.
A new study reveals that angiopoietin-like protein 2 (Angptl2) is a primary contributor to chronic inflammation in fat tissue, exacerbating conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Elevated Angptl2 levels have been found in obese individuals and those with insulin resistance.
A new molecule has been discovered that can treat type 2 diabetes and reduce weight gain by activating the protein TGR5. The study found that INT-777, a selective TGR5 activator, increases GLP-1 secretion and energy expenditure, leading to improved blood sugar control and weight loss.
A new study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that biotransformed blueberry juice has strong anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects. The juice was tested on mice prone to obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, and hypertension, and showed a significant reduction in food intake and body weight.
A new study published in Annals of Epidemiology found that the waist-to-hip circumference ratio was a better indicator of obesity in high-functioning adults over 70 than BMI. The research also showed a significant link between increased waist size and higher mortality risk in both men and women.
Researchers have identified a new genetic mechanism controlling body's fat-building process, potentially leading to new treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes. The study found that the MCPIP gene controls fat cell development, offering a new direction for developing drugs to prevent obesity-related chronic diseases.
Researchers from UCLA and Pittsburgh found that obese individuals have a 8% less brain tissue than those with normal weight, while overweight individuals have 4% less tissue. This increased risk is linked to severe brain degeneration and cognitive decline.
Researchers found that excess liver fat is linked to metabolic problems such as insulin resistance and high blood triglycerides. Losing weight can reverse fatty liver disease, with even brief calorie restriction showing significant reductions in liver fat.
A new study found that consuming sugar-free beverages with low-calorie sweeteners leads to greater dietary restraint, a key factor in successful weight maintenance. Researchers concluded that artificially sweetened beverages may be an important weight control strategy among individuals who have achieved or maintained weight loss.