Coconut oil: Healthful or unhealthful?
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Are the health claims that adorn coconut oil based on fact or fiction?
Fat suffered a bad reputation for a long time and we were told to opt for low-fat options instead. But the tides turned eventually, prompting us to see fats in a new light. Our lives became simpler. We learned how to avoid bad (saturated and hydrogenated) fats and eat good (unsaturated) ones to keep our tickers and arteries healthy. Then the humble coconut came along in 2003, and the waters were once again muddied. Seen by some as a superfood but recently labeled by the American Heart Association (AHA) as part of the pool of unhealthful fats, the controversy goes on. So, what are the scientific facts behind the coconut oil hype, and what are the latest developments? Secret ingredient: 'Medium-chain' fatty acidsMany of the purported health claims surrounding coconut oil stem from research published in 2003 by Marie-Pierre St-Onge, Ph.D. — a professor of nutritional medicine at Columbia University in New York City, NY. Prof. St-Onge found that in overweight women, consumption of medium-chain fatty acids — such as those found in coconut oil — led to an increase in energy expenditure and fat oxidation compared with women who ate long-chain or saturated fatty acids. But Prof. St-Onge used a specially formulated fat diet in her study, not coconut oil, and she never claimed that coconut oil was the secret to the results seen in her research. The rumor mill had begun to spin and coconut oil became widely hailed as a superfood. In fact, a 2009 study involving 40 women showed that 30 milliliters of coconut — consumed daily for a 12-week period — increased good high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, accompanied by a reduction in waist circumference. As more studies have followed, the picture became less clear-cut. AHA and WHO advise to limit consumptionDespite the number of studies casting coconut oil in a favorable light, the AHA issued an advisory note on dietary fats and cardiovascular disease in June 2017, recommending that we replace saturated fats with more healthful unsaturated fats. This includes coconut oil. As the World Health Organization (WHO) state, "[U]nsaturated fats (e.g. found in fish, avocado, nuts, sunflower, canola, and olive oils) are preferable to saturated fats (e.g. found in fatty meat, butter, palm and coconut oil, cream, cheese, ghee, and lard)." The reason? Saturated fat is bad for our cardiovascular health. However, there is another twist to this fascinating tale. While low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is generally thought of as "bad" cholesterol, the HDL type is widely accepted as being its "healthful" counterpart. Yet in 2017, we covered three studies that potentially turn what we know about fats and cholesterol on its head. The first strudy found that saturated fats may not "clog" our arteries after all, while the second one uncovered a link between "good" HDL and mortality. The third study, published in November 2017, showed that high levels of HDL may not protect us from heart disease, as previously thought. What is the latest?One of the problems with the controversy surrounding coconut oil is the lack of good-quality, large-scale human studies. But adding to the body of evidence is a new study by the BBC's "Trust me I'm a Doctor" team. Together with Dr. Kay-Tee Khaw, a professor of clinical gerontology, and Dr. Nita Gandhi Forouhi, a professor of population health and nutrition — both at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom — the team compared the effects of coconut oil, olive oil, and butter in 94 human volunteers. Each study participant was asked to consume 50 grams of one of these fats daily for 4 weeks. The results came as a surprise. Those who consumed coconut oil saw a 15 percent increase in HDL levels, while this number only stood at 5 percent for olive oil, which is accepted as being good for our cardiovascular system. If we are working on the premise that HDL is good, then these results speak in favor of coconut oil. It is important to note, however, that the results of this study have not been peer-reviewed and must be treated as preliminary. Coconut oil: The verdictSo, is coconut oil healthful or not? As with many research areas, there is no straightforward answer. If you are looking to lose weight, it's worth bearing in mind that coconut oil is very high in saturated fat and one tablespoon contains 120 calories. If it's cardiovascular health that you are after, the official party line drawn by the AHA and WHO still puts coconut oil on the list of fats to limit. But who knows, maybe the tables will turn, and new guidelines will emerge. In the meantime, coconut oil can be part of a healthful, balanced diet, if consumed in moderation. However, it's worth looking out for coconut oil in packaged foods, especially partially hydrogenated coconut oil. This is a source of trans fats, which the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) say increase the risk of heart disease. Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today http://ift.tt/O45xlc January 19, 2018 at 05:27AM
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All you need to know about hip flexor strain
http://ift.tt/2rmCdBf Damage to the hip area can vary from minor injuries that require little treatment, to more severe injuries that result in the muscles ceasing to connect with the bone. The most serious hip flexor injuries are third-degree sprains where the bone breaks alongside the muscle sprain.
Fast facts on hip flexor strain:
What are hip flexors?
The Psoas muscles are part of the hip flexor muscles.
Image credit: Anatomography, 2013 The hip flexors can be found connecting the top of the femur, which is the largest bone in the body, to the lower back, hips, and groin. There are various hip flexor muscles that all work to enable a person to be mobile. They include:
Overuse or overstretching of these muscles and tendons can result in injury and accompanying pain and reduced mobility. Symptoms of hip flexor strainMany people who experience hip flexor strain will have these symptoms as well:
Causes
Dancing and running may put the hip flexor muscles under strain.
A person's hip flexors are engaged when they bring their knee up towards their torso. Hence, activities such as dancing, martial arts, or running are where hip flexors are put under the most strain. Athletes who use the hip flexors in their sport and training are more susceptible to hip flexor strain or injury that can cause the muscles to tear. In sports medicine, it is thought that many hip flexor wounds are associated with hamstring strains. ExercisesExercises to keep the hip flexors supple and flexible can help prevent injury. Many people have jobs where they sit down for a large part of the day. This inactivity can result in tight hip flexors, causing lower back pain, hip pain, strain and damage to the area. Hip exercises can help to strengthen the hip flexor muscles. Most exercises can be done at home and are gentle stretches, which will help to reduce tension and prevent further or future injury. As well as exercises that can be done at home, gentle swimming and cycling can be beneficial to improve strength and prevent hip flexor strain. Warming up muscles before beginning exercises will help to ensure they are ready to be stretched and may prevent further straining. Applying heat to the area and going for a gentle walk for a few minutes are ideal ways to warm up before beginning the stretches. Stretches to help with hip flexor strain?
The seated butterfly stretch may help with hip flexor strain.
The following stretches can help to reduce tightness, increase flexibility, strengthen muscles and help prevent injury. Seated butterfly stretch Sitting up straight on the floor, place the soles of the feet together letting the knees bend outwards. The heels should be pulled gently inwards, and the knees dropped further towards the floor. Hold the stretch for 10 to 30 seconds. Pigeon pose Starting in the elevated plank position, the individual brings the left leg forward, so the knee is on the ground by the left hand. The right leg then slides back as far as possible. Hold the position and then swap sides. Bridge pose To do this pose a person should lie on their back with their knees bent and feet on the floor. They then take a deep breath before raising the hips off the floor while squeezing the glutes. Hold for a moment, gently lower, and repeat. Lunges A person should begin by standing straight with their feet together. They then take a step forward with the right foot, bending the knee and transferring the weight onto that leg before lowering their hips to the floor and holding the position. This should then be repeated on the other side. Wall psaos hold To do this stretch a person should start in a standing position then bend their right knee lifting the upper part of the leg towards the ceiling and balancing on the other foot. They then try to hold for 30 seconds before switching sides. Skater squats With their legs together a person should bed their knees while keeping their back straight and chest up. Once in the squat position, they should then lifting each leg off the ground one at a time, stretching it out and pointing the toes, while transferring the weight to the other. Straight leg raises Lying on their back, palms either side, a person should pull up the left leg and bend at the knee while keeping the foot on the floor. The right leg is then extended up towards the ceiling, without bending the knee. Hold the stretch for a few seconds and then switch sides. Hip flexion Starting by lying flat on their back with their legs straight, a person then slowly pulls the knee of their right leg towards their chest, as close as possible, without straining. After slowly lowering the leg, the same is repeated on the opposite side. What other treatments are there?For minor hip flexor injuries, people do not usually visit their doctor but prefer to treat themselves from home. Some common ways to help treat hip flexor strain are:
When taking these medicines, it is important to follow the instructions and not to use them for more than 10 days. If the pain persists after 10 days, a person may wish to make an appointment with their doctor to discuss alternative treatments. SurgeryIn more severe cases, a doctor will usually recommend an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan to ascertain whether the bone has been fractured. When the damage is unusually extensive, a doctor may recommend that an individual sees a physical therapist or undergoes surgery to repair the muscle. However, instances of damage this severe are rare. If hip flexor strain causes a limp or the symptoms do not get better after resting and treating at home for a week, it may be advisable to see a doctor. Tips for preventionPeople who are particularly vulnerable to hip flexor strain, such as athletes or those who regularly participate in vigorous activities that could damage or overstretch the hip flexors, can take precautions to avoid injury. Ensuring muscles are properly warmed up before taking part in physical activity, and doing exercises to strengthen the muscles, can help to keep the area flexible and strong, and reduce the chances of damage occurring. TakeawayHip flexor strain can be painful and uncomfortable but is rarely a cause for concern. How long the strain takes to heal will depend on the severity of the injury but is usually a few weeks for mild strains and up to 6 weeks for more serious damage. Rest and stopping activities that might have caused the strain will give a person the best chance to heal and recover quickly. Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today http://ift.tt/O45xlc January 19, 2018 at 03:20AM
Are our weight loss efforts doomed to fail?
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You've managed to lose that extra weight — great. But where do you go from here?
Strict calorie counting, giving up alcohol for the whole of January, and eating more fruit and veg — we put ourselves through this ordeal for the sake of feeling fitter, more attractive, and in better health. When we reach our weight goals, we celebrate our success and mark the date in our calendar — but is this achievement doomed to being short-lived? Researchers from the University of Florida in Gainesville have recently set out to learn just how long we can maintain weight loss for, and their findings aren't very optimistic. Kathryn Ross — who is an assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions — and her team hypothesized that following conventional assumptions, after a person experiences significant weight loss, there is a "limbo" period of weight loss maintenance before that person starts to put on weight again. However, their working hypothesis was not verified.
The study findings were published in the journal Obesity. Many of us cannot maintain weight lossExisting studies cited by Ross and colleagues had already shown that individuals who experience significant weight loss tend to put on between one third and one half of the pounds they shed within a year of their initial success. The question that the researchers were interested in addressing, however, was how long it took for people to start regaining weight. Although they first believed in a "period of grace" in which people maintained their new weight before relapsing, the current study proved the researchers wrong. The team worked with 75 participants who all completed a 12-week, Internet-based weight loss programme. Through this programme, the participants managed to shed 12.7 pounds (which is around 5.7 kilograms), or a pound (0.4 kilograms) per week, on average. Following this weight loss achievement, Ross and her colleagues asked the study participants to continue to weigh themselves every day over a period of 9 months. They were able to do so from the comfort of their own homes with the help of "smart scales," which were capable of relaying the data remotely "to research servers via wireless or cellular networks." The scientists note that, approximately 77 days from the beginning of the study, the participants started to experience weight regain, putting on approximately 0.15 pounds (or 0.07 kilograms) per week. After approximately 222 days from the start of the programme, weight regain rate slowed down somewhat, with participants only putting on about 0.13 pounds (0.06 kilograms) each week. Of the initial 75 participants, the researchers based their final analysis on the data sourced from 70 of them. The data from the other 5 participants were disregarded, as they were incomplete. Why do we rebound, how can we avoid it?Now, the researchers are dedicated to pinpointing what the riskiest periods for weight regain are, so that they can build strategies for prevention and weight loss maintenance. From this study, it is unclear why the participants started to regain weight so soon after the weight loss programme. Nevertheless, Ross and her team speculate that their social environment — with so many temptations and encouraging people to indulge in unhealthful eating habits — may have something to do with it. "We're surrounded by easy opportunities to get high-calorie, high-fat foods and it is hard for a lot of folks to build activity into their day," she warns. In other words, once we achieve our weight loss goals, we're satisfied enough with our progress to cave in to the same temptations that led to being an unhealthy weight in the first place. She does offer some encouragement, noting that weight regain is not a hard and fast rule. She says that some dieters remain successful and do not put the extra weight back on after the initial weight loss achievement. For those of us interested in keeping up our progress, Ross has a few tips meant to help us stay on track. First, she "encourage[s] folks to weigh themselves daily. This allows you to see how the changes you're making in your eating and activity are impacting your weight," she adds. She also "urge[s] people to look at the trends [in their weight maintenance journey] and not so much the day-to-day variation." When it comes to adjusting back to a higher caloric intake after a weight loss diet, Ross advises that we only add an extra 100 calories per day. Then, we should continue to keep tabs on our weight and modify our caloric intake accordingly. "There is not a huge difference between the number of calories people are eating when they hit their goal weight versus what they need to maintain," Ross says. We should also remember that maintaining a healthy weight isn't all about dieting. Exercise is just as important to keeping our body in shape, so we shouldn't forget to incorporate that into our regime — and keep at it. Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today http://ift.tt/O45xlc January 18, 2018 at 12:28PM
Anti-aging proteins may treat diabetes, obesity, and cancer
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A molecule involved in aging gives up its secrets in a new study.
A family of molecules called Klotho proteins has intrigued researchers interested in the aging process for decades. They are "named after the Greek goddess who spun the thread of life." Involved in metabolism, they also appear to play a role in longevity. Studies in the late 1990s showed that mice with mutated Klotho genes suffer from a condition similar to premature aging: they had much shorter lifespans, became infertile, and even developed arteriosclerosis, osteoporosis, and emphysema, as well as skin atrophy. A later study also found that the overexpression of Klotho genes extended the lifespan of mice by altering insulin and insulin-like growth factor 1 signaling. Examining KlothoA recent study takes a fresh, more detailed look at the structure of these proteins. The researchers set out to get a better understanding of what they do in the body and how they do it. The scientists, from Yale University in New Haven, CT, believe that their findings have implications for the future treatment of many conditions, including obesity, diabetes, and some cancers. There are two proteins in the Klotho family: alpha and beta. Both are receptors that sit on the membranes of certain tissues. They work in conjunction with molecules called endocrine FGFs, which regulate metabolic processes in tissues and organs including the brain, liver, and kidneys. Klotho proteins and FGFs operate in close quarters. In fact, those interested in longevity have, for some time, debated whether Klotho proteins or FGFs are the molecules responsible for altering aging. Using X-ray crystallography, the team built up a detailed picture of beta-Klotho's structure. The results are published this week in the journal Nature. Their first discovery was that beta-Klotho is the primary receptor for FGF21, a hormone that is produced during starvation. FGF21 has a range of effects — for instance, it increases insulin sensitivity and enhances glucose metabolism to induce weight loss. Senior study author Joseph Schlessinger, who is chair of pharmacology at Yale School of Medicine, explains the significance of this finding, saying, "Like insulin, FGF21 stimulates metabolism including glucose uptake. "In animals and in some clinical trials of FGF21," he continues, "it shows that you can increase burning of calories without changing food intake, and we now understand how to improve the biological activity of FGF21." Using Klotho therapeuticallyIf the activity of this hormone could be stimulated pharmacologically, it might be useful in treating conditions such as diabetes and obesity. In the paper, the team also describes a variant of FGF21 that is 10 times more potent, potentially offering an even greater therapeutic advantage. Additionally, they found evidence of how glycosidase — a similarly structured enzyme that breaks down sugars — evolved into a hormone receptor "that lowers blood sugar." As Schlessinger adds, this "may not be a coincidence." There is a huge need for more effective treatments for obesity and diabetes, so anything that can offer a novel route is likely to gain a great deal of attention. Enhancing this pathway could be of benefit. On the other side of the coin, the authors believe that blocking the pathway might lead to better treatments for liver cancer and bone diseases. Schlessinger concludes by summarizing the long road ahead: "The next step will be to make better hormones, make new potent blockers, do animal studies, and move forward." More studies are already in the pipeline. Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today http://ift.tt/O45xlc January 18, 2018 at 03:16AM
Do any weight loss pills really work?
http://ift.tt/2DGGSAu The best weight loss pills may contain one or more active ingredients intended to increase fat burning, decrease appetite, or reduce absorption of fat. Not all weight loss pills and supplements are created equal. Certain pills may cause unpleasant side effects while others may not be proven to result in weight loss. We will look at the following nine weight loss pills and supplements:
1. Alli (orlistat)
It is important to research carefully before choosing a weight loss pill, as some may have side effects, or interact with existing conditions.
Alli is the brand name for the drug orlistat. It is one of the most popular weight loss supplements. Orlistat is available as a prescription drug and also sold over the counter. It works by preventing the body from breaking down of some of the fat that people eat. When the intestines absorb less fat, weight loss may occur. A review of 11 studies indicated that orlistat might increase weight loss by a small amount. The review found that those who took orlistat lost an average of 2.9 percent more weight than those who did not take the drug. Orlistat may cause a change in bowel habits. People taking orlistat may experience side effects, such as diarrhea, stomach pain, and difficulty controlling bowel movements. 2. CaffeineCaffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, tea, soft drinks, and chocolate. It is also often added to diet pills and supplements. According to a study of 76 obese adults, people who had high caffeine intake saw a greater reduction in fat mass, weight circumference, and overall weight compared to those who had low caffeine intake. Side effects of caffeine include jitteriness, increased heart rate, and trouble sleeping. 3. GlucomannanGlucomannan is a type of fiber supplement. It works by absorbing water in the gut, leading to a feeling of fullness that may prompt people to eat less. Studies appear to be conflicting on whether glucomannan can aid in weight loss, however. A 2005 study of 176 people indicated that glucomannan contributed to weight loss in healthy, overweight adults. However, a more recent review of randomized control trials indicated that glucomannan did not appear to result in significant weight loss. For those who do take glucomannan, side effects may include gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain. 4. Garcinia cambogia extract
Garcinia cambogia extract is a popular natural weight loss aid.
Garcinia cambogia is a fruit that contains hydroxycitric acid, which is thought to help weight loss. Garcinia cambogia extract contains the juices from this small fruit and is available as a weight loss pill. Garcinia cambogia may inhibit or prevent a fat-producing enzyme called citric acid lyase. There is little scientific evidence to support the use of this extract to help with weight loss. According to one report, the effectiveness of the extract in long-term clinical trials and large-scale studies has not been proven. Although garcinia cambogia extract may not aid in weight loss, it does not appear to cause many side effects when taken in reasonable doses. The report above also indicated that adverse effects did not occur with a dietary dosage of up to 2,800 milligrams (mg) per day. 5. PyruvateThe body produces pyruvate when it breaks down sugar. Pyruvate is also sold as a supplement to assist with weight loss by helping break down fat and boosting metabolism. According to the National Institute of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements, pyruvate may have some effects on weight loss. Existing studies are weak, so results are not conclusive. Side effects of pyruvate include gas and bloating. 6. Green tea extractMany diet pills contain green tea because it may increase the body's ability to burn fat, and especially fat in the stomach area. Although more evidence is needed, some research indicates that drinks containing green tea extract may promote the loss of fat around the stomach area. The increase in fat loss may also result in modest weight loss. Although green tea extract is usually well tolerated, it can cause stomach pain, constipation, and nausea. 7. Conjugated linoleic acidConjugated linoleic acid is a type of fatty acid found mostly in beef and dairy. It has been marketed as one of the best weight loss pills for its potential to boost metabolism and decrease appetite. However, the majority of the studies on conjugated linoleic acid leading to weight loss have been carried out on animals. According to a review of research, weight loss appears to be minimal in human studies. Conjugated linoleic acid appears to be safe in doses of up to 6 grams per day for up to 12 months. Possible side effects include stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation. It may not be suitable for people who have diabetes. 8. Hydroxycut
Hydroxycut comes in different forms, and is considered a supplement.
Hydroxycut is a popular dietary supplement. There are different Hydroxycut products, which contain various ingredients. Hydroxycut products typically contain plant extracts and caffeine, although caffeine-free versions of the supplement are also available. There are no studies that review Hydroxycut specifically. Caffeine, which has been studied, may contribute to small amounts of weight loss. Since the ingredients of Hydroxycut vary, it is difficult to state the possible side effects. Hydroxycut supplements that contain caffeine may cause nervousness and increased heart rate. Hydroxycut is considered a supplement and does not go through the same rigorous testing as drugs to determine its safety. 9. Prescription weight loss pillsCertain weight loss pills are only available through a doctor's prescription. Although there are various pills on the market, most weight loss medications work by making it harder to absorb dietary fat or by suppressing the appetite. Two common weight loss pills are Belviq and Qsymia. Prescription pills may lead to some weight loss, but they can have side effects. Depending on the prescription, side effects of weight loss pills can include stomach pain, dry mouth, and diarrhea. TakeawayWhen it comes to the best weight loss pills, it appears there is no magic bullet. Although some of the diet pills and supplements mentioned above may contribute to weight loss, the amounts are usually modest. Caffeine, green tea extract, and orlistat appear to have the most research to back up their claims. Some weight loss pills can also lead to side effects, with the most common being stomach discomfort and changes in bowel movements. Dietary supplements do not face the same scrutiny as drugs that are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so their safety is not always fully understood. Before taking any supplement for weight loss, it is best to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional. The best bet for people trying to lose weight is to reduce portion size, eat lean protein and veggies, and get regular exercise. Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today http://ift.tt/O45xlc January 17, 2018 at 12:24PM
What gaining and shedding weight does to our body
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Weight fluctuations alter our molecular profiles.
In a paper that is due to be published in the journal Cell Systems, the researchers report how they drew on a huge amount of data from multiple study methods to create a detailed molecular profile of each of their 23 study participants. The molecular data were gleaned from various "-omics" techniques, including:
"In the end," says co-senior study author Michael Snyder, a professor of genetics at Stanford University in California, "we literally made billions of measurements." The study follows a research path that Prof. Snyder started on a few years ago when he was the subject of his own personal omics profiling, which tracked molecular changes in his body as he developed type 2 diabetes and then recovered from it after changing his diet and lifestyle. Profiling molecular changesIn the new study, he and the rest of the team found that, as the participants gained about 6 pounds of body weight over 1 month and then shed it, there were dramatic shifts in their gene expression, cardiovascular system, microbiome, and immune system. As the participants gained weight, their personal omics profiles revealed: significant changes to bacterial composition; activation of molecular pathways that have been linked to heart disease; and heightened inflammation and immune responses. But the good news is that after they shed their excess pounds, most of their systems returned to their original states. Prof. Snyder says that their goal was to "characterize what happens during weight gain and loss at a level that no one has ever done before." In particular, they wanted to "learn how prediabetic folks might differ in terms of their personal omics profiles and their molecular responses to weight fluctuation," he adds. Obesity and type 2 diabetesPeople with obesity are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as well as other serious health problems. Insulin resistance often precedes type 2 diabetes. Individuals with insulin resistance have problems with converting blood sugar into energy as their cells fail to react properly to insulin, a hormone that helps them to take in and use glucose. The pancreas tries to make more insulin to compensate, but eventually this might not be enough, leading to high blood sugar and full-blown type 2 diabetes. In the United States, where 36.5 percent of adults have obesity, there are more than 100 million people living with prediabetes or diabetes. Personal omics profiling of weight gain, lossFor the new study, the team compared the personal omics profiles of 13 insulin-resistant individuals with those of 10 individuals without insulin resistance — the "insulin-sensitive group" — as they gained and then lost weight. All the participants had a body mass index (BMI) of between 25 and 35 — that is, ranging from "overweight to moderately obese" — when they were recruited. The participants followed a high-calorie diet for a month, during which time they gained 6 pounds (2.7 kilograms) in weight. After this, they then shed the excess weight. The scientists took samples from the participants at four points during the study: at baseline; when their weight peaked following the high-calorie diet; when their weight returned to baseline; and then following 3 months of stability after their weight returned to baseline. Molecular patterns show insulin resistanceWhen they compared the insulin-resistant and insulin-sensitive groups, the researchers found significant differences in their baseline profiles. In particular, the baseline molecular profiles of the insulin-resistant group contained markers of inflammation, whereas those of the insulin-sensitive group did not have them. Prof. Snyder says that this finding suggests that omics profiling could identify individuals at risk of diabetes by spotting early markers of inflammation, which are known to be linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. The comparison of omics profiles after weight gain also showed interesting contrasts. Whereas inflammation markers rose in both insulin-resistant and insulin-sensitive groups, only the group that was insulin-sensitive showed bacterial markers of Akkermansia muciniphila, which protects against insulin resistance. However, the most dramatic change — for both groups — was alterations in gene expression that are known to be linked to raised risk of a form of heart failure known as dilated cardiomyopathy. "That was quite surprising," Prof. Snyder remarks, "I didn't expect 30 days of overeating to change the whole heart pathway." He explains, however, that their findings do fit "with how we think of the human body — it's a whole system, not just a few isolated components, so there are system-wide changes when people gain weight." Could some changes be longer-lasting?After they shed their excess weight and had a period of stability at their previous weight, the participants' omic profiles showed that most of the molecular changes went back to normal. However, a subset of weight gain changes in the profiles did persist. While they were not large or significant enough from which to draw firm conclusions, they do suggest, says Prof. Snyder, "that some of these effects could be longer-lasting." He also points out that while their study dealt mainly with group changes, they did notice that each participant had unique changes in their personal omics profile, which shows, he believes, that such tools will form a "critical part of managing human health in the future."
Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today http://ift.tt/O45xlc January 17, 2018 at 12:24PM
How you speak to your child may fuel obesity
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A new study investigates language and its role in childhood obesity.
Now that 1 in 3 children in the United States are either overweight or obese, every parent is concerned about their child's eating habits. Understanding how and why some children become obese is urgent. The way that parents behave and interact while feeding their children is known to be important, but the story is complex. Restricting food can actually, paradoxically, increase how much a child eats overall. Researchers recently set out to investigate a part of this conundrum: the role of language. They wanted to understand how the way in which we speak to our children about what they should or should not eat impacts dietary choices. Language and obesityIt's a given that the way in which a parent speaks to their child has an impact on their behavior. And, according to the latest research — which is now published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior -- this also applies to eating habits. Lead researcher Dr. Megan Pesch, who is a developmental and behavioral pediatrician, believes that the current study is the first to examine "the impact of parental direct imperatives in restricting a child's intake of unhealthy food." Currently, there is little advice available on how to speak with children about their dietary choices. As Dr. Pesch explains, "So many of the guidelines are focused on what not to do. There's a lot of emphasis on what parents shouldn't be doing and what doesn't work." In the study, Dr. Pesch and team — from the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor — videotaped 237 mothers (or primary caregivers) and their children, who were aged 4–8. The caregivers were all from low-income homes, a demographic known to be particularly at risk of childhood obesity. The caregiver-child pairs were alone in a room and were presented with different foods, including chocolate cupcakes. Dispelling parenting mythsThere is a stigma attached to the parents of obese children. Often, people assume that they simply allow their child to eat whatever they want, whenever they want. This study demonstrated that the reverse was true. As Dr. Pesch explains, "They were attentive and actively trying to get their children to eat less junk food." However, the scientists noted a subtly different linguistic approach. According to their findings, the caregivers of obese children were 90 percent more likely to use direct language, such as "Only eat one" or "You're eating both of those? No! Don't! Oh my gosh." The mothers of children at a healthy weight, however, were more likely to use indirect phrases, such as "That's too much. You haven't had dinner." This is the reverse of what might be expected; a more direct, firm message is thought to be most effective when talking to a child regarding discipline, or sleep, for instance.
The authors note a number of limitations to the study. For instance, the caregivers knew that they were being filmed as part of an experiment, which could have altered their behavior. Also, only individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds were involved, and the new findings may not apply to other demographics. As this is the first study of its kind, there will need to be much more work before firm conclusions can be drawn. Only then can solid advice be given to parents. Dr. Pesch and her team plan to continue this line of investigation. "We hope," she says, "to find better answers to the ultimate question of what parents should do to help set their child up for healthy eating long-term." Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today http://ift.tt/O45xlc January 17, 2018 at 05:55AM
Is surgery better than dieting for weight loss outcomes?
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New research has uncovered an association between bariatric surgery and lower death rates.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over a third of adults in the United States lives with obesity. This is particularly worrisome as the condition is also linked to other negative health outcomes, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. The most common ways to manage excess weight are dieting, physical exercise, weight loss drugs, and bariatric, or weight loss, surgery. Individuals aiming to get back into shape may opt for one or a combination of these treatments, depending on what choices are most suitable for them. Bariatric surgery is usually offered to individuals diagnosed with "severe obesity," which is defined as a having a body mass index (BMI) of over 35. This surgery type aims to make the stomach smaller, so that a person's appetite — as well as the amount of food that they can ingest — is reduced. Types of bariatric surgery include:
Recently, Orna Reges, Ph.D., and others from Clalit Health Services in Tel Aviv, Israel, conducted a study that explored which types of weight loss strategy and procedures are associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality. The findings of their study are published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Surgery versus nonsurgical managementReges and her team conducted a retrospective cohort study that involved 8,385 people diagnosed with obesity, all of whom had had some type of weight loss surgery (either laparoscopic banding, gastric bypass, or gastrectomy) between 2005 and 2014, and 25,155 people who followed alternative obesity management programs, as advised by their physicians. Obesity management interventions included counseling sessions that targeted diet and working to improve eating behaviors. The participants in the two groups were matched as closely as possible for age — with a median age of 46 — and biological sex. The final follow-up date for all of the participants was December 31, 2015. After analyzing the data obtained from these cohorts over a period of approximately 4.5 years, Reges and colleagues found that the individuals diagnosed with obesity who had undergone bariatric surgery had a lower rate of all-cause mortality than those who had opted for nonsurgical management. The researchers argue that their study is relevant in the context in which much research has been conducted about the short-term outcomes of weight loss surgery, but information about its long-term outcomes is limited. Specifically, they were interested in gathering more data about the associations between this type of intervention and all-cause mortality rates. This kind of information, they say, had not been reliably available before, because previous studies were unable to compare the data for patients of bariatric surgery with those of individuals who had opted for nonsurgical interventions. Reges and her team, however, warn that their study is observational, so it is difficult to infer a direct causal relationship between bariatric surgery and lower death rates. The findings, they say, could be influenced by a range of different factors that the researchers were unable to control. Other limitations include "group imbalance" created by matching the participants based on their age, sex, BMI, and an existing diagnosis of diabetes. Nevertheless, the authors conclude that their study will enrich the existing resources addressing the health outcomes of various obesity treatments. They write:
Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today http://ift.tt/O45xlc January 17, 2018 at 03:26AM
4 Reasons It’s Harder to Lose Weight in Winter—and What You Need to Do Differently
http://ift.tt/2FJN5ME [brightcove:5599232558001 default] There's no question it's easier to make healthy choices in spring and summer: There's an abundance of produce in season. The sun is shining, the days are long—and you feel naturally motivated to head outdoors and get active! But come the cold, harsh months of winter, eating clean and slimming down can seem a whole lot more challenging. Read on for a few common weight-loss hurdles that pop up when the temperature drops, plus experts tips on how to dodge them. Temptation is everywhereHot chocolate, creamy soups, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese—'tis the season for comfort foods, which can seem so unfair given you're doing your best to stay hyper-focused on what you "should" be eating. These circumstances can put you in a tough spot, says health and lifestyle coach Sheila Viers. If you're not careful, you may slip into the mindset that all indulgences are "bad," she explains—and once you start labeling your food choices as "good" and "bad," every decision becomes a loaded one. Any time you stray from your rigid eating plan, you might experience guilt or shame, emotions that can trigger the body's stress response, says Viers. And stress only sets you up for more trouble: When you're not feeling your best, it's even harder to stay on track with your goals, she points out. Instead of sweating over all the dietary "shoulds," try making food choices that are right for you. "Maybe you plan ahead," Viers suggests, so you are deciding in advance when you want to indulge (like at the Friday night potluck, for example). Or maybe you choose one small indulgence per day (say, a few squares of high-quality dark chocolate) to satisfy your sweet tooth. “The important thing is that the decision feels good to you.” RELATED: 57 Ways to Lose Weight Forever, According to Science You're fighting the urge to hibernateBetween the snow and ice, and shorter, darker days, winter is enough to tank your motivation to exercise. Who wants to venture out into the freezing weather to go for a run, or to the gym when it's so cozy at home? Luckily, you don't have to leave your living room to get in a killer sweat sesh (promise). There are tons of great workout videos online. "You can put a couple together," says Viers, "or split them up, with 10 minutes before work and 10 minutes in the evening." Keeping up a fitness routine will help with more than weight loss, she adds. “The benefit of working out is that it gets oxygen to the cells,” says Viers. “This keeps your body working optimally, and keeps you energized." Need some fitspo? We've rounded up our favorite online workouts for yoga, dance cardio, and HIIT. Only got a few minutes? Check out these super-efficient routines you can do anywhere. Sign up for our 30-Day Love Your Strength Challenge With Emily Skye! You’re loading up on saltIf you're eating less fresh food in the winter months, you're probably eating more packaged and processed foods, which can be sneaky sources of sodium. Think canned veggies and soups, pasta, bread, chips and crackers—they can all cause you to retain water. Even if you’re keeping your calorie intake in check, water weight can make you feel bloated and sluggish. Viers' advice: Hydrate as much as you can. "It really is the best way to get rid of that water weight," she says. Adding potassium-rich foods to your diet may help, too, because they regulate sodium levels in your body. Great sources include avocados, bananas, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and coconut water. To get more weight-loss tips delivered to your inbox, sign up for the Healthy Living newsletter Raw veggies seem so unappealingLet’s face it: When you’re feeling cold, your belly isn't exactly rumbling for kale. You’re probably more inclined to opt for a savory lunch over a salad, right? Soups and stews are a great way to get vegetables too, you just have to choose wisely, says Viers. “A soup with a cream base is more likely to contain more calories, for example, so you can opt for broth-based soups." And if you're turned off by salad, try eating your veggies warm: Roasted sweet potatoes, peppers, parsnips, carrots, asparagus and Brussels sprouts are great as a side, thrown into soup, or even tossed over greens for a hunger-crushing meal. Don't forget about warm fruits either. They can be a delicious and healthy winter treat. You can bake or roast peaches, pears, plums, or even cherries, and eat with a little drizzle of honey or cinnamon, or a dollop of whipped cream. Weight Loss via Weight Loss - Health.com http://ift.tt/2zvXHy6 January 16, 2018 at 05:14PM
How to control your appetite naturally
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