Research on weight loss and its health effects. Covers GLP-1 injections, companion digital programs, pregnancy guidelines, and asthma benefits.
Despite the NHS roll-out of Mounjaro officially starting in June 2025, less than half of England has access to the weight-loss jab. An estimated 3.4 million people could benefit from tirzepatide, but only 18 out of 42 commissioning bodies have started prescribing it, leaving many patients without treatment.
A synthetic molecule called Pep19 has been shown to reduce visceral fat and improve sleep quality in overweight adults, with no side effects observed. The study involved 24 volunteers who took either a placebo or Pep19 in capsules, and found a 17% reduction in visceral fat and improved sleep quality in those who received the molecule.
A cohort study found that GLP-1 receptor agonist prescriptions are associated with a reduced risk of uveitis compared to controls. The findings suggest potential anti-inflammatory benefits beyond glycemic control, warranting further investigation into their role in ocular inflammatory diseases.
A retrospective cohort study found that approximately 1 in 10 US adults undergoing bariatric surgery initiated glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. The use of these medications was more common among women and individuals with larger body mass index regain after surgery.
A new study found that excessive visceral fat is linked to faster ageing of the heart, with a genetic predisposition to female-type fat in women potentially slowing heart ageing. Researchers also discovered that artificial intelligence analysis of images revealed signs of organ ageing, including tissue stiffness and inflammation.
A telephone-based weight loss intervention significantly reduced weight in breast cancer patients with overweight and obesity. The study suggests that this intervention may improve disease outcomes, warranting further investigation in future trials.
Researchers have developed edible microbeads that, when consumed, bind to fats in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially providing a safer and more accessible alternative to surgery or pharmaceuticals. The microbeads are made from green tea polyphenols, vitamin E, and seaweed, and show promise for weight loss in rats fed high-fat diets.
A new imaging approach allows researchers to visualize how dual-acting diabetes and obesity drugs like tirzepatide interact with cells in the pancreas and brain. The tool, called daLUXendins, provides insight into the metabolic effects triggered by these drugs, which stimulate both GLP-1R and GIPR receptors.
A new study found that adolescents with higher blood levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) prior to bariatric surgery regained more weight and had greater increases in waist circumference up to five years after surgery. Researchers believe PFAS exposure disrupts endocrine and metabolic processes, leading to weight regain.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that weight loss interventions before IVF increased unassisted pregnancy rates, while the effect on live births was unclear. Weight loss interventions studied included low-energy diets, exercise programs, and pharmacotherapy.
Initiation of semaglutide in adults leads to reductions in weight and cardiovascular risk factors, while increasing health care expenditures. These findings suggest potential clinical benefits, highlighting the need for long-term evaluation of semaglutide's economic impact.
Researchers found that Ozempic-induced weight loss decreased lean mass by 10% in mice, with most of the lost weight coming from non-skeletal tissues. While some skeletal muscles did shrink, others stayed the same size, and strength was affected for some but not all muscles.
Nearly 17 million teens and young adults are eligible for GLP-1RA therapy, but one in five is uninsured and nearly a third lack healthcare access, hindering treatment of cardio-kidney-metabolic diseases.
A new therapy, regulation of cues combined with behavioral weight loss (ROC+BWL), was found to be more effective than standard cognitive behavioral therapy in reducing binge eating among veterans. The benefits were sustained even six months after treatment ended.
In a randomized clinical trial, oral semaglutide significantly reduced body weight in East Asian adults with overweight or obesity, regardless of type 2 diabetes presence. The study's safety profile is consistent with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists.
Researchers from NUS have tracked changes in gene expression and splicing patterns in skeletal muscle after a 16-week lifestyle intervention program involving supervised exercise and dietary changes. The study found that participants lost weight and improved insulin sensitivity, with specific genes showing evidence of G x L interaction.
A meta-analysis published in BMC Medicine found that patients prescribed anti-obesity medications may experience a significant weight gain after stopping their prescription. The study analyzed data from 11 randomised trials and suggests that six approved anti-obesity medications are associated with weight regain after treatment cessation.
A new study identified neurobeachin as a genetic predictor of weight loss response to GLP-1RAs. The findings have the potential to advance obesity care and provide more effective, personalized treatment options.
A new genetic test can predict adulthood obesity in early childhood, allowing for targeted preventative strategies. The test was developed using data from over five million people and found to be twice as effective as previous tests at predicting obesity risk.
A survey of 2,000 single U.S. adults found that GLP-1 weight-loss drugs are affecting people's sex lives and dating experiences, with men reporting increased libido and confidence. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to report low libido and decreased sexual function.
A new study found that anti-obesity medications can normalize testosterone levels in men with obesity or type 2 diabetes. This positive effect on reproductive health was observed after a 10% weight loss, with total and free testosterone levels increasing by 24%.
A new study found that intermittent energy restriction significantly improved fasting blood glucose and triglycerides, while also increasing insulin sensitivity. The IER group showed the greatest advantages in reducing these markers compared to time-restricted eating and continuous energy restriction groups.
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...
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.
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 national survey of 1,000 American adults found that stress (43%) and lack of sleep (39%) are major contributors to a short attention span. The study also identified digital devices as a significant factor, with 35% of respondents citing it as a contributing factor.
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.
Recent research reveals that adipose-derived stem cells from obese individuals do not fully recover their anti-inflammatory capacity even two to three years after significant weight loss. The study, published in Stem Cells International, used bariatric surgery as a model to investigate the impact of weight loss on these stem cells.
Experts say that focusing on weight loss alone for obesity may not provide sustained long-term results and can contribute to societal weight bias. A patient-centered approach prioritizing health over weight is recommended.
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.
Early-phase clinical trials of a new weight management medication amycretin have confirmed its safety and tolerability. The medication targets two specific receptors to help control blood sugar and appetite, showing promise in treating overweight, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
The American College of Cardiology has issued a Concise Clinical Guidance document to inform clinicians about medication for weight management in patients with cardiovascular benefit. Modern obesity medications, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, have been proven effective in reducing overall cardiovascular disease risk.
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.
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.
A Cleveland Clinic study found that patients taking injectable GLP-1 medications for obesity lost an average of 3.6% body weight, significantly lower than the 11.9% seen in non-discontinuers. Treatment discontinuation negatively impacted blood sugar control in those with prediabetes.
A new study found that nearly one-third of individuals adopting healthy diets didn't lose weight but still experienced significant improvements in cardiometabolic markers, including increased HDL cholesterol and reduced visceral fat. The research suggests a healthy diet can have benefits beyond weight loss.
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.
New research shows that weight stigma and not weight itself have the biggest impact on mental health and healthy behaviors in patients after weight-loss surgery. This reduction in weight stigma is linked to improvements in both mental and physical health, including lower levels of anxiety and depression.
A Virginia Tech professor has received a proof-of-concept grant to further develop a chemical compound that could help promote weight loss by increasing mitochondrial activity. The compound, named BAM15, shows promise in preclinical studies without affecting food intake or muscle mass.
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.
This novel treatment approach yields better weight loss maintenance and cardiovascular risk outcomes compared to standard-of-care treatment. Patient-delivered lifestyle intervention combined with peer support significantly improves weight loss and reduces cardiovascular risk.
Sustained midlife weight loss was associated with lower chronic disease incidence and decreased all-cause mortality. The study's findings suggest that maintaining a healthy weight during middle age can have long-term health benefits.
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.
A new study from the University of Bath found that regular, moderate-intensity exercise preserves vitamin D levels in overweight and obese individuals. The study showed that exercise completely maintained the body's active form of vitamin D, which plays a key role in supporting bone health and the immune system.
A new study by York University suggests that the broad ethnic categories used in clinical settings may mask differences in sub-ethnic groups. The findings indicate that socio-economic factors play a significant role in weight loss disparities among Black, Middle Eastern, Latin, and South Asian communities.
SYNT-101 successfully redirects nutrient absorption to the lower intestine, promoting satiety and metabolic balance. The study demonstrated strong safety and tolerability profiles, as well as control of hunger and weight loss.
Researchers found that tirzepatide increases energy expenditure directly after treatment, while semaglutide reduces it. Both drugs aid weight loss by decreasing food intake and enhancing fat oxidation.
A new analysis of 100 top TikTok videos about food noise found that half reference the use of medications, mainly anti-obesity drugs, to manage constant thoughts about food and eating. The study highlights the potential risks of misinformation on social media platforms like TikTok.
A study published in Molecular Motabolism found that prolonged water-fasting can increase inflammation and stress on the body, potentially exacerbating existing heart and vascular conditions. However, some benefits were observed, including a reduction in amyloid beta proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease.
A new analysis of the SELECT trial shows semaglutide reduces major cardiovascular events by 40% within 3-6 months, even before significant weight loss and full target dose. The study found that semaglutide's effects on reducing inflammation, blood sugar, and blood pressure may contribute to its early clinical benefits.
Patients in an online obesity clinic achieved average weight loss of 16.7% after 64 weeks, similar to clinical trials of semaglutide, but using less than half the medication. The study found that personalized doses of semaglutide combined with behavioral therapy and support led to successful weight loss.
Researchers found that individuals who consumed collagen-enriched protein bars lost twice as much weight as a control group. The supplement also improved blood pressure, waist circumference, and liver health. Participants reported feeling less hungry and more full.
A new head-to-head study has shown that tirzepatide results in around 50% more weight loss than semaglutide in adults with obesity. The study found that tirzepatide led to an average weight loss of 20.2%, significantly higher than the 13.7% achieved with semaglutide.
Researchers found that GLP-1 receptor agonists have a direct effect on reducing obesity-related cancer beyond weight-loss, with a 41% lower relative risk compared to bariatric surgery. The study also suggests that these medications work through multiple mechanisms, including reducing inflammation.
A systematic review of available evidence found GLP-1 RAs lead to significant weight loss and improved blood sugar control in adults with severe mental illness. The analysis also showed that these medications were not associated with a worsening of mental state or suicidal behaviour.
Researchers found that a 3-month program of time-restricted eating at any time of the day can result in significant weight loss for at least a year, regardless of eating window timing. The study suggests that restricting the eating window to 8 hours may be an effective long-term approach for sustaining weight loss.
Researchers found that silencing Mitch, a key regulator of mitochondrial fusion, increases cellular respiration and burns more fats and carbohydrates. In human cells, deleting Mitch leads to increased muscular endurance and a decrease in fat accumulation.