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High-sugar diet no problem for genetic mutants

Researchers at USC Davis School of Gerontology discovered a genetic pathway that enables certain worms and humans to resist the negative effects of high-sugar diets. The study suggests that activating this pathway could lead to new treatments for obesity, while cautioning against potential risks associated with increased Nrf2 function.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2014

'Fat shaming' doesn't encourage weight loss

A study of 2,944 UK adults found that those who experienced weight discrimination gained more weight than those who did not, on average gaining 0.95kg while those without discrimination lost 0.71kg over four years. This contradicts the common perception that fat shaming might encourage weight loss.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalObesity·DateSep 10, 2014

Fun or exercise?

Researchers at Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that adults who viewed their exercise as fun ate less chocolate pudding and M&Ms afterwards. Viewing exercise as a chore led to overeating as a reward.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalMarketing Letters·DateJul 9, 2014

Non-diet approach to weight management more effective in worksite wellness programs

A new wellness approach called Eat for Life, focusing on mindfulness and intuitive eating, is more effective than traditional weight-loss programs in improving body image and reducing problematic eating behaviors. Women who participated in the program reported higher levels of body appreciation and lower levels of disordered eating beh...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateJul 7, 2014

Weight gain following antidepressant use examined

Researchers found that antidepressants with certain properties contribute less to weight gain than others, which could influence treatment preferences for patients at risk of weight gain. The study analyzed data from a large healthcare system and identified differences in weight gain rates among various antidepressant medications.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 4, 2014

Studies presented at ACOG Annual Meeting reveal new information about weight and pregnancy

Two studies from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine show that patients are often unaware of proper weight gain during pregnancy, highlighting the importance of improved communication. Additionally, research on prenatal testing for morbidly obese women reveals no increased risk of complications or early delivery.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 28, 2014

Attitude during pregnancy affects weight gain

Overweight pregnant women who believe they are 'eating for two' tend to experience excessive weight gain, while those with a goal-oriented approach and healthy habits gain appropriate weight. Monitoring weight gain during pregnancy can help prevent future complications and obesity.

SourcePenn State·JournalObesity Research & Clinical Practice·DateFeb 26, 2014

Health insurance increases preventive care but not risky behaviors

Researchers at UC Davis and University of Rochester found that having health insurance increases use of preventive services like flu shots and health screenings, but does not affect risky health behaviors. The study contradicts a common concern that expanding healthcare coverage may encourage riskier behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateNov 26, 2013

Body weight influences both the physical and mental quality of life

A study by Helmholtz Munich found that increased body weight deteriorates physical health, but improves mental well-being in women. The researchers analyzed data from over 3000 people, revealing the complex relationship between body weight and overall health.

Maintain, don't gain: A new way to fight obesity

A new study from Duke University finds that a 'maintain, don't gain' approach can be effective in preventing obesity-related health issues among premenopausal black women. By focusing on maintaining current weight, these women can reduce their likelihood of experiencing chronic diseases later in life.

SourceDuke University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 26, 2013

Vigorous physical activity linked to lower incidence of obesity in young African-American women

A study by Boston University researchers found that vigorous physical activity was associated with a lower risk of obesity among young African-American women. The study, which followed 20,259 women for 14 years, revealed that increasing levels of vigorous exercise resulted in a 23% lower incidence of obesity.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 21, 2013

The skinny on cocaine

Research from the University of Cambridge reveals that chronic cocaine use causes profound metabolic changes, reducing the body's ability to store fat. This leads to significant weight gain during recovery, which can contribute to relapse and has profound implications for health and well-being.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAppetite·DateAug 9, 2013

Gene mutation linked to obesity

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital identified a genetic cause of severe obesity in mice with the Mrap2 gene mutation, which also affects humans. The study found that these individuals gained weight even on a controlled diet, highlighting a new understanding of metabolism and energy regulation.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 2013

Smoking cessation, weight gain, and subsequent CHD risk

Researchers found that smoking cessation lowered the risk of coronary heart disease among postmenopausal women with and without diabetes. However, weight gain after quitting weakened this association, particularly for women who gained 11 lbs or more, according to a study using data from the Women's Health Initiative.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 2, 2013