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Family-based treatments may help address obesity in children

A family-based treatment approach for childhood obesity was found to be effective in reducing body mass index standard deviation scores. Young age and high BMI-SDS at baseline, as well as good motivation for treatment and adherence to the protocol, were key factors associated with successful weight loss.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateJul 7, 2017

Local views key to unlocking ways to fairer and more successful nature conservation

Researchers found that an approach to pursuing equity with local communities' perspectives can bring better outcomes for habitats and wildlife, as well as some of the world's poorest people. Current practices are limited in their interpretation of equity, resulting in responses that sustain local perceptions of injustice and miss oppor...

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalConservation Letters·DateJul 4, 2017

No pain, no gain?

A recent study by University of Freiburg researchers found that an individual's expectations and self-perception play a significant role in determining the level of strenuousness experienced during physical exercise. The study, which involved 78 test subjects, showed that those who believed they were more athletic or had faith in sport...

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 30, 2017

UA researchers: Brains evolved to need exercise

Researchers propose adaptive capacity model to understand exercise-brain connection, suggesting physical activity impacts brain structure and function from evolutionary history as hunter-gatherers. Exercise may enhance cognitive abilities and prevent age-related decline or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateJun 26, 2017

The Lancet: Guided self-help approach to graded exercise program is safe and may reduce fatigue for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome

A new trial has found that a guided self-help approach to a graded exercise program can be safe and may reduce fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. The study, which involved 200 people, showed that participants who received the guidance had a smaller effect on reducing physical disability compared to those who did not.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 22, 2017

Can a single exercise session benefit your brain?

A new review of research on acute exercise found that it improves executive function, enhances mood, and decreases stress levels in humans. Neurophysiological and neurochemical changes also show widespread brain activation after a single bout of physical activity.

SourceIOS Press·JournalBrain Plasticity·DateJun 12, 2017

Exercise may help combat postpartum depression

Research suggests that physical exercise during pregnancy and postpartum periods can improve psychological well-being and alleviate depressive symptoms. The study analyzed 12 studies and found no correlation between exercise intensity or frequency and the effectiveness of exercise in reducing postpartum depression.

SourceWiley·JournalBirth·DateJun 7, 2017

Excessive exercise may damage the gut

Acute or chronic gut issues can arise from excessive exercise, leading to compromised gut function and increased risk of health complications. Low to moderate physical activity may be beneficial for patients with irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceWiley·JournalAlimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics·DateJun 7, 2017

Food is not just the sum of its nutrients

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen argue that the health effects of a food product cannot be determined solely on the basis of its nutrient content. The findings suggest that interactions between nutrients and bioactive substances can alter the nutritional and health properties of a particular food. This challenges current n...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 23, 2017

Lifting your spirits doesn't require many reps

A new study from the University of Connecticut found that even light physical activity can improve mental well-being and reduce depression. The research suggests that individuals who engage in low-intensity exercise, such as a leisurely walk, experience greater benefits than those who undertake vigorous activities.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Health Psychology·DateMay 12, 2017

Osteoarthritis could be prevented with good diet and exercise

Researchers at the University of Surrey found that metabolic changes caused by poor diets and sedentary lifestyles can trigger genetic reprogramming in cells, leading to inflammation and cartilage damage. By controlling metabolic changes through healthy eating and exercise, it may be possible to slow or even prevent osteoarthritis.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Reviews Rheumatology·DateMay 12, 2017

Cardiorespiratory fitness can reduce risk of fatty liver

A Finnish study finds that moderate cardiorespiratory fitness protects against fatty liver, a significant public health concern linked to metabolic disturbances and cardiovascular disease. Achieving cardiorespiratory fitness can help mitigate the risk of fatty liver, regardless of weight status.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateMay 3, 2017

One step closer to an 'exercise pill'

Researchers discovered that inhibiting myostatin production in mice significantly enhances muscle mass and improves markers of heart and kidney health. The findings suggest a promising pathway for protecting against obesity-derived cardiometabolic dysfunction, potentially leading to the development of an 'exercise pill'.