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 that tirzepatide reduced body weight and body fat by approximately 20% in mice, resulting in a significant reduction of tumor volume. The study suggests that this new anti-obesity drug may have a beneficial impact on breast cancer outcomes.
A real-world study of 120 postmenopausal women found that using tirzepatide and menopause hormone therapy simultaneously led to superior total body weight loss percentage compared to using tirzepatide alone. This combined treatment also resulted in a higher percentage of participants achieving at least 20% weight loss.
Chronic health issues may emerge from long-term obesity in young adults, leading to epigenetic alterations, telomere attrition, and impaired nutrient sensing. The study found a significant association between long-term obesity and accelerated biological aging, highlighting the importance of addressing obesity early on.
The study reveals substantial variations in obesity rates across disaggregated Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander subgroups. Rapid temporal increases in high BMI were seen among Filipino and other Southeast Asian populations, with nearly half of females and two-thirds of males having a BMI greater than or equal to 27.5.
A recent study of 1,543 males aged 15 to 35 found that those who used prescription weight loss medications reported significantly higher levels of disordered eating behaviors and attitudes. The study suggests that boys and men may face unique pressures or vulnerabilities related to body image and weight control, highlighting the need f...
Dr. Richard M. Peterson has been elected as the new president of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. He aims to increase utilization of life-saving bariatric surgery, making it available to those who can benefit. The society reports over 270,000 metabolic and bariatric procedures performed in 2023.
A team of researchers from The University of Osaka has made a breakthrough in weight loss treatment by developing a one-time genome editing approach that introduces a GLP-1 receptor agonist gene. This innovative method enables the body to produce its own weight-loss medication, reducing the need for regular injections.
The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) has announced that NUTRITION 2026 will be held in National Harbor, Maryland, near Washington, DC. The meeting will showcase the latest developments in nutrition science and feature top experts in the field. Abstract submissions open this fall, and award nominations will also be accepted.
A study of 679 patients found that longer GLP-1RA treatment, not having diabetes, and higher body fat were associated with better weight reduction. Higher muscle mass and metabolic rate also contributed to successful weight loss in patients with overweight or obesity.
A recent study published in Nature reveals that weight loss triggers the breakdown and recycling of fats called lipids, potentially leading to improved health outcomes. Weight loss also clears out senescent cells, which are ageing and damaged cells that accumulate in tissues, reducing inflammation and scarring.
Preliminary research suggests that climate change can lead to a reduction in nutritional quality in food crops, with potential devastating consequences for human health. The study found that elevated CO2 levels and hotter temperatures can exacerbate this decline, particularly affecting essential proteins, minerals, and antioxidants.
A study of 168,547 postmenopausal women found that excess weight is associated with a 31% higher risk of breast cancer in those with cardiovascular disease. Higher BMI also increases the risk in women without cardiovascular disease, although to a lesser extent.
A new framework for defining obesity may reclassify 1 in 5 overweight US adults as obese, but surprisingly shows similar mortality risk to those with normal weight. The study found that larger waist circumference at greater risk for death among postmenopausal women across all BMI categories.
Astrocytes, long-neglected brain cells, are found to modulate behavioral flexibility and whole-body metabolism in mice with obesity. Researchers from CNRS and Université Paris Cité discovered that manipulating astrocytes in vivo can correct cognitive changes and influence metabolism.
Over 17 years, US children's health has worsened significantly across various domains including mortality rates, prevalence of chronic conditions, and rising obesity levels. The study highlights the urgent need to address the underlying causes driving this decline in the nation's health.
The study found a striking increase in obesity among US children and adolescents between 2011 and 2023, with the highest prevalence among Black youth. The overall prevalence of obesity increased from 20.3% to 22.0% during this period.
Michael Karin, renowned for his work on chronic inflammation and cancer, will lead the Center for Metabolic and Liver Diseases at Sanford Burnham Prebys. He aims to develop new treatments for metabolic and liver diseases, which affect millions of patients worldwide.
A study analyzing data from over 1.6 million children across 68 low and middle-income countries found that early-life exposure to economic shocks is linked to an increased risk of malnutrition, including undernutrition and overweight/obesity. Targeted interventions during critical periods like pregnancy and the first 1,000 days of life...
Researchers have discovered how FGF19, produced in the intestine, acts on specific regions of the brain to regulate energy expenditure. The hormone stimulates thermogenic adipocyte activity, leading to increased fat burning and improved blood glucose levels in obese animals.
A WSU-led study identifies associations between prenatal factors and childhood obesity, revealing distinct BMI trajectories in children. The research found that children with mothers who smoked during or had high BMIs before pregnancy showed rapid weight gain starting from age 3.5 years.
A large European meta-analysis has found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) during pregnancy and childhood is associated with an increased risk of childhood overweight or obesity. Higher levels of PM2.5 during pregnancy were linked to a 23% increased risk of childhood obesity in children aged 9-12 years.
The experimental drug SANA has been shown to prevent fat accumulation, treat existing obesity, and reverse associated metabolic disorders. In animal tests, it activated thermogenesis through an unconventional mechanism, targeting adipose tissue cells to produce heat without involving the UCP1 protein.
A new potential drug treatment has shown promising results in reducing blood sugar levels and increasing fat burning in people with type 2 diabetes and obesity. The treatment activates metabolism in skeletal muscle, promoting healthy weight loss and preserving muscle mass, a key factor in metabolic health.
A new study found that weighted vests and resistance training did not prevent bone loss in older adults undergoing intentional weight loss. The researchers call for alternative strategies to protect skeletal health in aging populations with obesity.
A new study found that self-esteem scores doubled within one year of weight-loss surgery, with the highest increases seen among those who lost the most weight. The study also highlighted the importance of understanding and addressing weight stigma in obesity treatment.
Scientists at Northwestern University have developed an algorithm that enables smartwatches to more accurately monitor the calories burned by people with obesity during various physical activities. The technology bridges a critical gap in fitness technology, allowing for more accurate tracking and tailored interventions.
The University of Gothenburg, AstraZeneca, Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, and Region Västra Götaland are partnering to tackle metabolic disorders. The SEK 200 million initiative aims to deepen understanding of obesity's mechanisms and develop effective treatments.
A University of Oxford study found that an intensive low-energy diet programme significantly improved eating disorder symptoms in people with type 2 diabetes and excess weight at risk of developing eating disorders. The programme showed benefits persisting six months after completion.
Researchers at Tufts University have designed a new compound that incorporates structural elements of four hormones - GLP-1, GIP, glucagon, and PYY - to create a single weight loss drug. This chimera peptide aims to address the drawbacks of current weight loss drugs, such as nausea and limited efficacy.
The AMA has passed a resolution calling for easier access to anti-obesity medications, which have been shown to help adults lose an average of 15-20% of their weight. Improved access could benefit millions nationwide, reducing obesity-related medical costs estimated at $173 billion annually.
Fermenting legume pulses increases their antioxidant activity by up to 83% and their capacity to regulate Type 2 diabetes markers by up to 70%, according to a study. Red lentil and green split pea exhibited the greatest improvements in antioxidant scavenging activity and protein solubility.
A cohort study found that obesity in childhood cancer survivors is linked to an increased risk of developing multiple subsequent neoplasms. Conversely, high levels of physical activity are associated with a reduced risk of these cancers.
A new study found that obesity can lead to feelings of judgment, isolation, and stigma in older adults when seeking social care. The research highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to address unmet needs and increase awareness among healthcare professionals.
The Greaux Healthy initiative aims to prevent and treat childhood obesity through partnerships with healthcare providers, educators, and families. The program has developed tools and resources for four priority populations, including expectant families, preschool-aged children, school-aged children, and adolescents and young adults.
Researchers identified biomarkers like uric acid and bile acids as critical regulators of arterial stiffness and inflammation in adolescents with obesity. These findings provide new avenues for early intervention to prevent the progression of vascular stiffness and cardiovascular disease.
The Endocrine Society supports the bipartisan legislation to ensure people living with obesity have access to effective treatments. The bill will cover anti-obesity medications and intensive behavioral therapy, addressing the chronic disease's complications like cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
A new study from the University of Surrey found that teenagers in affluent counties like Surrey struggle with access to healthy food and exercise due to systemic issues. The research highlights the need for structural changes to support young people's health and wellbeing.
Obesity can lead to coronary microvascular dysfunction, causing impaired blood flow to the heart and increased risk of heart problems. Studying pannexin-1 protein, a key player in this process, could help develop treatments to prevent heart issues before they start.
Research finds that following a low-calorie diet is associated with a heightened risk of depressive symptoms, especially in men who are overweight. The study analyzed data from over 28,500 adults and found that calorie-restrictive diets were linked to higher cognitive-affective symptom scores in men.
Children born to mothers with a BMI of 35 or higher are at heightened risk of being admitted to hospital for an infection. Maternal obesity is characterised by chronic inflammation, which increases the risk of a disordered immune system response and unfavourable changes to the gut microbiome.
A new study found that patients lean towards tirzepatide, while sleep medicine professionals favour continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP) to treat comorbid obesity and obstructive sleep apnea. Results show a significant difference in treatment preferences between patients and providers.
Researchers found that obese mice displayed more anxiety-like behaviors and showed different signaling patterns in the hypothalamus, a region involved in regulating metabolism. The study also observed distinct differences in the makeup of gut bacteria in obese mice compared to lean mice.
The American Society for Nutrition released a clinical advisory outlining eight key nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy, including personalized diets, micronutrient prevention, and adequate protein intake. Studies have shown that patients receiving combined pharmacologic and lifestyle interventions achieve greater weight lo...
Research suggests that self-employment among white women is associated with lower rates of obesity, physical inactivity, and poor sleep duration. This study uses biologic and physical measures to explore the relationship between self-employment and cardiovascular disease risk factors across sex and racial/ethnic minority status.
Researchers have discovered a unique group of nerve cells in the brain that regulates body weight and is linked to obesity. Removing specific receptors in these cells leads to increased food intake and weight gain in mice.
A Japanese study found that choosing the right type of meal can extend meal duration and encourage more mindful eating. Researchers discovered that traditional bento-style meals with individual components promoted longer meal times and more chewing compared to fast food.
Researchers at University of Gothenburg identified a group of nerve cells controlling semaglutide's appetite-suppressing effects without causing nausea. The discovery may lead to improved treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
A new study reveals that the weight of fathers during adolescence can harm genes in future children, linked to asthma, obesity, and low lung function. The effect is more pronounced in female children, highlighting a potential vulnerability window for lifestyle influences.
Researchers found that central body fat, especially around the abdomen, is a stronger link to psoriasis risk than total body fat. This association remained consistent regardless of genetic predisposition, suggesting abdominal fat as an independent risk factor.
A new study reveals that boys who are overweight in their early teens risk damaging the genes of their future children, increasing the chances of developing asthma, obesity, and low lung function. The researchers identified epigenetic changes in over 2,000 sites in 1,962 genes linked to fat cell formation and lipid metabolism.
A cohort study found children on the path to obesity by age 3.5, highlighting modifiable risk factors that can be targeted in prevention programs. The Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) cohort provided valuable insights into early-life factors and BMI trajectories.
A new NIH study found that early childhood weight patterns may signal future obesity risk. The study tracked children's body mass index (BMI) from infancy through age 9 and identified two distinct growth patterns, with a smaller group following a trajectory marked by a sharp rise in BMI.
The American Heart Association has awarded nearly $1.2 million in planning grants to 12 researchers testing the efficacy of food is medicine interventions, such as produce prescriptions and medically tailored groceries. The grants support clinical trial protocols to develop and test these approaches for treating chronic diseases like c...
Researchers found that residual inflammation in psoriasis patients is linked to obesity, metabolic dysfunction, and increased systemic inflammation. This study suggests that despite good skin response to biologics, patients may still exhibit broader health implications, such as cardiovascular disease and fatty liver disease.
Researchers identified metabolite patterns in blood and urine related to ultra-processed food intake. A poly-metabolite score was developed, showing potential to objectively measure diet and reduce reliance on self-reported data.
A study published in Cell Metabolism finds that a combination of gut bacteria and acetate reduces obesity in mice. The researchers discovered that the specific combination of Bacteroides species and acetate leads to increased fat burning and reduced sugar storage, resulting in weight loss.
Girls who enter puberty early have a higher BMI before, during, and after puberty, increasing the risk of overweight later in life. The study found that biological differences between sexes make girls more vulnerable to this impact.
Bariatric surgery, a critical tool for combating obesity, is under threat in Australia due to skyrocketing indemnity insurance premiums. The study found that surgeons are being penalized by rising premiums, forcing some to reconsider their future in the field.
GLP1-RA treatment is associated with improvements in quality of life, restrained eating, and emotional eating behavior. The treatment also provides reassurance regarding its psychiatric safety profile.
A new study found that adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes after age 40 have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death compared to those diagnosed earlier. Poor glucose control, obesity, and smoking are the main risk factors identified in the study.