A new Cochrane review suggests that intermittent fasting may not be an effective strategy for weight loss in overweight or obese adults. The study found no meaningful difference in weight loss between intermittent fasting and traditional dietary advice or doing nothing, highlighting the need for more research into this area.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 15, 2026
A large-scale study found that patients taking tirzepatide had a significantly lower risk of developing new diabetic retinopathy or progressing to more severe stages. This suggests that the medication may not worsen eye health, offering relief for patients concerned about their vision.
A Rutgers Health study found that perceived effectiveness of semaglutide, such as noticeable weight loss or reduced food cravings, was the strongest predictor of satisfaction and intention to continue treatment. Although gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting were common, they didn't significantly influence satisfaction score...
A cohort study reveals that infants from vegan households have similar growth patterns to those from omnivorous households, with a higher risk of early underweight at birth. As the findings suggest, further research is needed to examine the quality of vegan diets and the impact of nutritional counseling during pregnancy and infancy.
Researchers have quantified the role of obesity in common long-term conditions, showing that losing weight can prevent multiple diseases. Obesity was found to be the main shared cause between ten pairs of commonly occurring conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis.
Researchers have found a nonlinear dose-response relationship between exercise and hepatic steatosis, indicating that a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises can produce clinically meaningful improvements. The study suggests that exercising above 130 MET-min/week can lead to significant reductions in hepatic steatosis.
The W8Buddy study, a major real-world evaluation of digitally delivered specialist weight management pathways, is recruiting 450 participants from 4 Specialist Weight Management Services across England and Wales. The study aims to assess the long-term health benefits and economic impact of digital tools for obesity care.
A recent study from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center found that diagnostic abnormalities were no more likely to occur among adults with unintentional weight loss than among comparison patients. In most cases, the weight loss was not linked to a serious underlying condition, with only a .7% overall rate of cancer.
A new study from University of Southern Denmark reveals that weight loss improves the health of fat tissue, reducing inflammation and immune cell activity. Moderate weight loss also promotes the formation of new and healthier fat cells, leading to improved insulin sensitivity.
Tufts researchers have developed a method to biosynthetically produce tagatose, a rare sugar with potential health benefits. Tagatose is 92% as sweet as sucrose and has about 60% fewer calories, making it an attractive alternative to conventional sugar substitutes.
Researchers at Vanderbilt Health found that both weight loss drugs and bariatric surgery induce a moderate loss of lean muscle and substantial reduction in fat, improving body composition in obese patients. This shift is associated with lower mortality risk from obesity-related diseases.
A new study found that more than one-in-four adults worldwide may be eligible for GLP-1 use, with women and older individuals among the most eligible. The research emphasizes the need to prioritize global access to these medications, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where obesity rates are highest.
A new study found that 4.9 million adults in Great Britain have recently used a drug to support weight loss or were interested in using one in the near future. The usage far exceeds NHS England's initial goal of prescribing these drugs to 220,000 people over three years.
A systematic review finds that stopping weight loss drugs leads to rapid weight regain, reversing heart health markers in under two years. Average monthly weight gain is 0.4kg, with all cardiometabolic risk markers projected to return to pre-treatment levels within 1.4 years.
Experts warn that people taking weight loss drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide may not receive sufficient nutritional guidance, leaving them at risk of nutrient deficiencies and muscle loss. The lack of robust evidence surrounding nutritional advice and support has significant implications for overall health and well-being.
Around 4.9 million British adults, nearly one in ten, have recently used or expressed interest in GLP-1 medications to support weight loss. The demand highlights substantial need for these medications, which help lower blood sugar, support weight loss, and reduce the risk of heart and kidney complications.
A recent study found that adolescents with overweight or obesity who take glucagonlike peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) have a lower risk of acute asthma exacerbations. This association suggests a potential dual benefit, where GLP-1RA use could address both weight management and asthma prevention in this population.
Households taking GLP-1 medications reduce grocery spending by an average of 5.3%, while spending at fast-food restaurants and coffee shops also decrease. Ultra-processed foods see significant declines, whereas yogurt, fresh fruit, and meat snacks experience modest increases.
Researchers found that the healthy Nordic diet was more effective in reducing blood glucose levels and improving body weight, inflammation, and lipid profile compared to other diets. The study also showed that participants lost weight despite being allowed to eat as much as they wanted from recommended foods.
A new trial found that increasing or decreasing sugar intake in a person's diet has no effect on their preference for sweet foods. Researchers suggest that public health advice may need to focus on reducing sugar and energy-dense foods, rather than eliminating all sweet options.
A cohort study found an association between GLP-1 receptor agonist use and chronic cough. Researchers are now seeking to confirm the link's existence, strength, and mechanisms.
Researchers identified biological markers of inflammation, liver stress, and early damage to brain cells in young adults with obesity. Low blood levels of choline, essential for liver health and long-term brain function, were also found. These findings suggest that metabolic stress and inflammation may begin far earlier than expected.
A new analysis by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine found that a vegan diet, including
The study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists are increasingly used for postpartum weight loss in overweight women without a documented diabetes diagnosis. The primary indication for use was weight reduction, suggesting a potential shift in treatment guidelines.
Researchers found that higher muscle mass combined with a lower visceral fat to muscle ratio tracks with a younger brain age. Building muscle and reducing visceral fat are actionable goals for improving brain health. The study used whole-body MRI and AI algorithms to quantify muscle volume, fat tissue, and brain age.
A study found that pregnant women who discontinued GLP-1 medications before or early in their pregnancy experienced higher risks of weight gain, diabetes, hypertensive disorders, and preterm delivery. Those who stopped taking the medications gained an average of 7.2 pounds more weight during pregnancy.
Combining improved diet quality with increased physical activity significantly reduces body fat, particularly visceral fat, associated with higher risks of diseases. The study found that simultaneous changes in both behaviors result in greater benefits than individual changes.
A review of 1.6 million women found that two-thirds experience excessive or inadequate weight gain during pregnancy, associated with complications such as preterm birth and large birth weight. The study supports the development of global healthy growth and weight gain standards to improve outcomes for mothers and babies worldwide.
A study comparing GLP-1 RAs found that all three drugs are relatively safe options for patients with type 2 diabetes, with minimal differences in kidney and cardiovascular risks. Liraglutide had a lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to dulaglutide.
Dr. Leanne Redman joins the Charles Perkins Centre to lead research on obesity, diet, and exercise, building on her extensive experience in women's health issues and translational research. With over 300 publications and numerous awards, she will expand the centre's impact on global health.
A study published in Pediatric Drugs found that children and adolescents with underweight are more likely to discontinue ADHD medication within a year. The researchers also found clear differences in dosage, gender, and age that can affect treatment outcomes.
A doctor warns of critical treatment gaps in eating disorders, highlighting the dangers of ignoring physical warning signs and behavioral indicators. Dr. Jennifer Gaudiani advocates for integrated medical and psychological care to address the urgent need for effective treatment.
A new medication called DR10624 has shown promising results in reducing high triglyceride levels by over 60% in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. The treatment also improved cholesterol and liver health, offering a potential alternative for managing this condition.
A new study found that combining GLP-1 receptor agonist medications with healthy lifestyle habits significantly reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes. The research suggests that adopting multiple healthy behaviors can lower cardiovascular risk even further.
The current NHS rollout of Mounjaro is expected to reach only around 200,000 patients in the first three years. Meanwhile, over one and a half million people are accessing private treatment for obesity. Researchers warn that strict eligibility criteria may exclude vulnerable patients from receiving treatment on the NHS.
Three new Cochrane reviews found GLP-1 drugs result in clinically meaningful weight loss, but evidence on longer-term outcomes and side effects is limited. The wider use of these drugs should consider social and commercial determinants to avoid deepening existing health inequities.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 29, 2025
A new study finds that an AI-powered lifestyle intervention is noninferior to human coaching in achieving a composite outcome in adults with prediabetes and overweight or obesity. The AI-led Diabetes Prevention Program was noninferior to the human-led program in terms of weight reduction, physical activity, and HbA1c levels.
A new study by Beni-Suef University in Egypt reveals that nearly half of undergraduate students use non-prescription weight loss supplements without prior medical consultation. The researchers found that many users were aware of potential health risks but continued taking the supplements due to social media and family influence.
SourceDe Gruyter·JournalInternational Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health·TypeObservational study·DateOct 23, 2025
A new study found that fitness and calorie counting apps can lead to negative emotions such as shame, disappointment, and demotivation among users. The researchers called for a more holistic approach focusing on wellbeing rather than rigid calorie counting and exercise quantification.
Researchers identified a set of biomarkers that can predict blood pressure outcomes five years after adolescents underwent metabolic bariatric surgery. The study found that blood-based biomarkers were more accurate than traditional risk factors, suggesting a potential new approach to predicting long-term blood pressure outcomes.
The study found a significant increase in the use of weight loss drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide among patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery. The proportion of patients receiving these medications rose from 1.8% to 29.4% between 2020 and 2024, reflecting growing popularity and perceived effectiveness.
A new study found that adipose-derived extracellular vesicles, tiny cell messengers in obese individuals, accelerate the buildup of amyloid-β plaques in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers hope targeting these tiny cell messengers could reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease in people with obesity.
The European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) has recommended Semaglutide and Tirzepatide as the first-line treatment for people living with obesity and most of its complications. These medications have been shown to be effective in promoting total weight loss and reducing complications such as obstructive sleep apnea, knee ...
A new study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism found that weight loss treatments, including medication and surgical procedures, may help lower the risk of obesity-related cancers in people with obesity and type 2 diabetes. The study analyzed data from over 180,000 people and found a significant reduction in cancer incidence ...
A study on apple cider vinegar's effectiveness in weight loss was retracted by BMJ Group due to significant methodological flaws, including implausible statistical values and inadequate reporting. The retraction was prompted by concerns raised by statisticians and experts who were unable to replicate the results.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 23, 2025
A Georgia State University researcher has received a $25,000 grant to develop mechanisms for treating obesity and related metabolic dysfunctions. The goal is to identify therapeutic candidates with strong clinical translation capabilities.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open shows that regular phone support after losing weight is crucial for maintaining weight loss. Participants who received monthly phone calls maintained an average of 8% weight loss from their starting weight, with about 60% keeping off at least 5% of their initial weight.
The SURPASS-PEDS trial shows that tirzepatide significantly improves HbA1c levels, BMI, and fasting glucose in children aged 10-17 years with type 2 diabetes. The study demonstrates sustained improvements over a year-long period, making it a potential safe and efficacious treatment option for youth-onset type 2 diabetes.
New research finds that GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) significantly reduce the risk of death and major cardiovascular events in psoriasis patients. GLP-1RAs also show promise in reducing alcohol and substance abuse, with a 65% lower risk of alcohol abuse.
A study of 92 individuals with type 2 diabetes found that those who overeat due to emotional reasons are less likely to lose clinically significant weight while taking GLP-1 receptor agonists. In contrast, individuals who eat in response to external stimuli tend to respond well to the therapy.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare·TypeObservational study·DateSep 17, 2025
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.
Mayo Clinic researchers developed a genetic test that can predict how people will respond to weight loss medications. The test estimates an individual's calories to satiation, linking it to treatment success and providing personalized estimates of expected satiation threshold.
A new study uses three wearable sensors to track eating behavior and identifies five distinct patterns, including late-night snacking and stress binging. The findings lay the groundwork for personalized interventions to help individuals overcome unconscious habits that drive overeating.
A phase 3 trial of once-daily orforglipron found substantial weight loss in people with obesity but not type 2 diabetes. The medication improved cardiometabolic levels and was associated with significant reductions in body weight, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, triglyceride levels, and non-HDL cholesterol.
A randomised trial found that regular exercise reduced inflammation and improved endothelial function, leading to lower risk of heart attack and strokes. Exercise maintained weight loss without GLP-1 receptor agonist liraglutide.
A study of individuals taking Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro found that 21.3% reported food tasting sweeter, while 22.6% said it tasted saltier than before. These changes were linked to reduced appetite and weight loss in all groups, with participants who experienced increased sweetness being twice as likely to report increased satiety.
Research suggests that semaglutide, a weight loss medication, decreases intrusive thoughts about food and improves mental health in individuals with obesity. The study found that 81% of participants experienced less food noise after taking semaglutide for at least four months.
A national study found that half of adults without diabetes who started taking semaglutide for weight loss discontinued treatment within a year. The most common factors influencing discontinuation were age, with younger users more likely to stop, as well as high costs and higher predisposition to adverse effects.
Researchers at Penn State found that weight fluctuations and changes can lead to faster cognitive decline in older adults. The study analyzed data from 4,304 participants and showed that those with greater variability in weight experienced more rapid cognitive declines.
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.