A systematic review of 43,000 women with diabetes exposed to GLP-1 RAs found no significant associations with preterm birth, stillbirth, or neonatal death, but evidence gaps remain for early pregnancy loss and postpartum use. Further research is needed to address these gaps and provide clearer evidence for women with diabetes
A study of 57,611 UK Biobank participants found that fluctuations in blood pressure were associated with a higher risk of death and strokes. The study suggests that blood pressure variability could help identify high-risk patients, but more research is needed to prove its benefits.
A new RNA therapy promotes thermogenesis, turning white fat into beige fat that burns energy, and preserves lean muscle mass when combined with GLP-1s. This treatment improves glucose tolerance and other measures of metabolic health, offering a potential solution to the loss of muscle mass associated with GLP-1 weight loss.
Pennington Biomedical researchers propose a new understanding of how protein restriction promotes healthy aging and extends lifespan by triggering a coordinated whole-body response. The response connects cellular nutrient sensing with hormones, brain function, and changes throughout the body, influencing healthy aging and longevity.
Researchers found that meal timing programs the liver's daily rhythms and can have serious metabolic and health consequences when out of sync. The liver uses food signals to activate metabolic pathways, which can conflict with the body's natural circadian clock, leading to health issues.
Dr. Emily Flanagan's five-year NIH grant will investigate how energy intake and expenditure influence infant growth and future obesity risk. The study aims to improve energy-intake standards for infants and identify critical periods for interventions promoting healthy growth.
A Finnish study found that habitual coffee consumption is associated with healthier body composition, lower visceral fat, and greater skeletal muscle mass. In both men and women, higher coffee consumption was linked to lower circulating levels of branched-chain amino acids, a key biomarker for insulin resistance.
A hybrid lifestyle program showed potential benefits for cardiometabolic health among adherent participants with obesity, but failed to achieve significant weight loss. The study suggests further investigation into the program's effects on metabolic health.
Researchers propose using a simple GKI test to track metabolic health in noncommunicable diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease. The test measures glucose to ketone ratio and may help assess nutritional ketosis and adherence to metabolic interventions.
The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) has announced the locations for its upcoming annual meetings, NUTRITION 2027 in Las Vegas and NUTRITION 2028 in Boston. The meetings will bring together researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to advance nutrition science and celebrate 100 years of ASN.
Researchers propose using the glucose ketone index (GKI) to track metabolic health in non-communicable diseases, which cause three in four deaths worldwide. The GKI measures blood glucose and ketones and may indicate metabolic state, assess long-term nutritional adherence, and support mitochondrial function improvement.
Researchers successfully isolated highly pure geometric isomers of phytoene and phytofluene, revealing distinct ultraviolet absorption characteristics and different responses to light- and heat-induced isomerization. The study demonstrated strong UV-A-shielding capacity and antioxidant activity for these colorless carotenoids.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen suggests that longer sleep is linked to more stable blood sugar levels in healthy 18-year-olds, even among those with no previous health issues. The researchers tracked participants over two weeks and found a two-way relationship between sleep duration and blood sugar stability.
A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that a low-protein, amino acid-supplemented 'longevity diet' improved cardiometabolic markers and reduced frailty and fat mass in mice. The diet was associated with longer healthy lifespan and better metabolic health in both mice and humans.
Research explores role of short-chain fatty acids in regulating dendritic cell development and differentiation via epigenetic regulation. Study reveals butyrate increases expression of surface molecules, influencing immune-cell trafficking and localization.
A study found that prebiotic xylo-oligosaccharides reduced harmful metabolites and improved liver health in overweight adults. The composition of the gut microbiota prior to supplementation influenced the benefits observed.
The American College of Cardiology has issued a new Expert Consensus Decision Pathway to guide postpartum cardiovascular care, emphasizing comprehensive visits and effective management of CV emergencies. The guideline aims to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality by optimizing cardiometabolic outcomes.
A study found a significant decrease in metabolic bariatric surgery utilization between 2022 and 2024, with a 34.1% drop, while glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) use increased by 140.4% during the same period. This trend may continue due to growing prescribing of GLP-1s.
A new Northwestern University study finds metformin primarily targets the gut, driving glucose utilization inside cells lining the intestine to prevent blood sugar levels from rising. The drug slows mitochondrial energy production in gut cells, allowing the intestine to metabolize extra sugar and regulate blood sugar levels.
A review from Florida Atlantic University links obesity to Alzheimer's disease through disruptions in metabolism, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial function and gut-brain axis balance. Early detection and whole-body prevention may become possible through monitoring metabolic health.
Creatine supplementation has been shown to increase muscle energy and improve cognitive function, particularly in populations with lower baseline creatine levels. Emerging evidence also explores its potential therapeutic applications for conditions like Parkinson's disease and menopause-related muscle loss.
A recent study published in Cell Reports identified a key pathway through which the hormone FGF21 influences eating behavior and energy balance. The findings highlight the importance of nutrition in brain function and suggest that FGF21-based therapies could be optimized to target specific brain circuits.
Prenatal stress alters signaling pathways involving corticosteroids in brown fat tissue, potentially blunting the metabolic benefits of exercise. The study highlights the importance of considering maternal stress context in developmental metabolic programming.
A study identified exosomal microRNA-122-3p as a key driver of MASLD pathogenesis. Elevated miR-122-3p levels induced triglyceride accumulation and reactive oxygen species production in liver cells.
A team of researchers, led by Bistra Iordanova and Liang Zhan, are developing multiscale models of brain metabolism to predict cognitive decline and dementia. They will analyze data from brain imaging, blood flow, and neural activity to identify metabolic changes that affect brain function in aging.
A review highlights the importance of healthy lifestyles in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Adhering to optimal lifestyle factors, such as a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep, can dramatically lower disease incidence.
Researchers have identified a key protein that activates brown fat by expanding blood vessels and nerves, which can regulate body temperature and is linked to weight loss. The findings suggest a new approach to treating obesity that deviates from suppressing appetite.
Children with metabolically healthy obesity at treatment initiation have an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Reduction in BMI z score is associated with reduced cardiometabolic risk, suggesting treatment should be recommended for these children as well.
A new study uses metabolic modeling to predict which probiotics will successfully establish themselves in a person's gut and how prebiotics affect short-chain fatty acid production. The findings demonstrate the utility of these models for personalized probiotic and prebiotic interventions.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 19, 2026
A new study found that versions of both diet patterns emphasizing healthy foods are associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. The study suggests that focusing on overall diet quality may offer flexibility for individuals to choose eating patterns that align with their preferences while still supporting heart health.
A new study from the University of Victoria found that higher insulin levels at age 47 predicted younger onsets of hot flashes and night sweats. Insulin may be a stronger predictor of hot flashes when taking other metabolic variables into account, while body mass index (BMI) appeared more closely associated with estrogen level changes.
Scientists developed a compound that targets Liver X Receptor specifically in liver and gut to lower triglycerides. In first-in-human clinical trial, participants showed significant drops in triglycerides and remnant cholesterol after taking the drug.
Both bariatric surgery and semaglutide treatment were associated with significant fat mass loss, moderate fat-free mass loss, and an improved FFM to fat mass ratio. These findings support interventions aimed at preserving muscle mass while promoting weight loss.
Researchers identified a specific type of gut bacteria, Turicibacter, that promotes metabolic health and reduces weight gain in mice. The bacterium produces fatty molecules that are absorbed by the small intestine, improving ceramide levels and preventing excessive weight gain.
Researchers found that short and irregular weekday sleep significantly disrupts glucose metabolism, increasing type 2 diabetes risk. Even with extended weekend sleep, the body's ability to process glucose is impaired. Regular sleep patterns are crucial for glucose regulation and may impact the development of insulin resistance.
A research team at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft found that pregnant mice exposed to fatty food smells developed more pronounced obesity and insulin resistance in their offspring. The brains of the offspring showed similarities to those of obese adult mice, suggesting a potential link between maternal diet and child health.
Researchers found that exposure to hotter weather during pregnancy disrupts key amino acids and vitamins, increasing the risk of preterm delivery. The study provides new insights into the biological mechanisms behind preterm birth and may lead to the development of early biomarkers for identification and prevention strategies.
Lipid droplets, once considered inert fat storage units, are now recognized as dynamic organelles involved in cellular signaling and energy metabolism. Exercise is shown to promote lipid droplet degradation through critical pathways, reducing harmful lipid accumulation and mitigating associated risks in various organs.
A study published in Obesity found that young adults exposed to a diet high in ultra-processed foods ate more calories at an all-you-can-eat meal. The researchers, led by Brenda Davy and Alex DiFeliceantonio, used a controlled feeding study to investigate the effects of ultra-processed food on eating habits.
A new study from UC San Francisco found that saturated fat affects the behavior of a protein called PER2, which orchestrates fat metabolism and circadian rhythms. Mice eating a diet high in hydrogenated fats struggled to adapt to winter, whereas those on unsaturated fat diets adjusted easily.
A study published in Science Advances found that the ketogenic diet can have potentially dangerous impacts on metabolic health, including impaired blood sugar regulation and fatty liver disease. Mice fed the diet developed severe metabolic complications, with some changes starting within days.
Researchers found that voluntary running exercise mitigates cafeteria diet-induced behavioral changes via hormonal and microbial pathways. The study revealed specific metabolites, such as anserine and indole-3-carboxylate, were decreased by the cafeteria diet but partially restored by exercise.
A new study published in PNAS found that physical activity increases total daily energy expenditure without reducing it elsewhere. The research showed a clear link between being more active and spending less time sitting still.
A new study finds that visceral and hepatic fat are strongly linked to carotid artery thickening and clogging, increasing cardiovascular risk. Hidden fat can silently increase heart disease risk even in people who appear healthy.
The latest Global Burden of Disease study reveals a significant increase in cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden worldwide, with CVD causing one in three deaths globally. The report estimates that 79.6% of all CVD deaths are attributable to modifiable risk factors, which has increased globally by 97.4 million since 1990.
Metabolic bariatric surgery shows promise as a cost-effective weight loss option for class II and III obesity patients. The study found bariatric surgery resulted in greater weight loss compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 trials found GLP-1 RAs significantly improved glycemic and weight outcomes in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes or obesity. However, gastrointestinal adverse effects warrant attention in long-term management.
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 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.
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.
A new study published in Nutrients found that both whole and refined grain foods can contribute to improved dietary patterns and health. The study analyzed data from over 14,000 Americans and identified healthy grain foods based on nutrient density, fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
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 human study found that ultra-processed diets lead to increased weight gain, disrupt hormone levels, and introduce pollutants affecting sperm quality. Men on an ultra-processed diet gained more fat mass and had lower testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels compared to those on a minimally processed diet.
Dr. Nick Burton, a researcher at Van Andel Institute, has been awarded the Pew Charitable Trusts' prestigious Pew Scholar award in Biomedical Sciences. He will investigate how environmental factors influence health, including exposure to stress and microbes, and explore new Type 2 diabetes treatments.
Researchers found that eating a whole avocado as a nighttime snack led to lower triglyceride levels before and after breakfast compared to other snacks. The study suggests that avocado's unique nutrient package may support heart health by encouraging healthier fat metabolism.
Researchers have charted how plant metabolism responds to genetic changes that increase oil production, finding simultaneous increases in both oil and protein content. The study's findings will provide scientists with clues for optimizing biofuel production in plants such as camelina and pennycress.
Dr. Randy J. Nelson's research reveals that artificial light exposure disrupts immune function, causes neuroinflammation, and influences mood regulation. His work has significant implications for understanding depression and anxiety disorders, as well as the obesity epidemic.
Researchers discover a novel metabolic pathway, glyoxalase system, that regulates excessive immune responses by targeting a previously underexplored metabolic pathway. The GLO2-SLG-D-lactylation pathway suppresses inflammatory signaling, reducing inflammation in acute and autoimmune disease settings.
Creatine has broad health benefits beyond athletic performance, including maintaining energy in stressed cells and preventing muscle loss with aging. Studies have shown no significant side effects from creatine supplementation, contradicting common misconceptions.
Researchers have discovered a novel cell-clearance pathway linked to diseases such as Chediak-Higashi Syndrome, which affects immune system function. The study used CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology and live imaging to characterize this pathway and identify key genes involved.