Some dermatologists are exploring the connection between skin care products and rising rates of frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA)—a condition characterized by hair loss at the front of the scalp, predominantly affecting postmenopausal women.
A recent 2023 study suggests that FFA may be linked to facial products containing moisturizers, particularly sunscreens, based on data compiled from nine different studies.
Cases of FFA have surged in the last two decades, especially in Europe and the United States, sparking further investigation into environmental factors alongside genetic and hormonal influences.
One hypothesis is that certain ingredients in leave-on products may penetrate the skin surrounding hair follicles, inciting an immune response that can gradually damage hair follicles over time.
However, proving this link remains challenging due to the methodologies of existing studies. For instance, two UK studies found that in 2016 and 2017, researchers analyzed small cohorts of individuals with FFA. In the first study, 100 women suffering from FFA utilized more sunscreen compared to 105 women without hair loss.
Similarly, in the second study, 17 men with FFA reported using sunscreen (and sunscreen-containing moisturizers) significantly more than 73 men without symptoms.
Factors influencing hair loss can be interconnected – Image courtesy of Getty Images
While these findings may appear compelling, Thai researchers approached the topic with caution. In a 2021 survey, they examined 250 Asian women, of which 50 had FFA and 100 experienced significant hair loss or thinning. It was noted that individuals with hair loss employed more moisturizers and sunscreen compared to the control group.
Nonetheless, this kind of research can only indicate correlations rather than establish causation.
Another possibility is that individuals who first observe hair thinning become more focused on their appearance and may increase their usage of skin care products, rather than those products being the source of the issue.
Furthermore, sun exposure itself could also play a role, with increased sunscreen use potentially reflecting greater time spent outdoors.
A more effective way to determine the relationship would involve randomly assigning participants without hair loss to either use specific skin care products or avoid them entirely. However, is such testing ethical if these products contribute to hair loss?
For now, the majority of experts concur that the evidence is insufficient to warrant the avoidance of sunscreen, which is vital for skin cancer prevention.
The British Association of Dermatologists indicates that while the exact cause of FFA remains unknown, possible contributing factors include genetics, immune responses, and hormonal changes.
This article responds to the inquiry from Alice Carthright in Glasgow: “Does using moisturizer cause baldness?”
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While biologically minimal, hair holds significant meaning in our lives. A contemporary emblem of youth, vitality, and aesthetic appeal, both the presence and absence of hair profoundly influence our self-perception and how others perceive us.
What makes hair so crucial to our identity?
Dr. Fabio Zucchelli, a psychologist at the University of the West of England, attributes this to an innate desire for conformity.
From an evolutionary psychology standpoint, the need to belong drives many of our feelings about appearance. When hair begins to thin, it may feel like we deviate from established norms.
However, our perspectives on hair are not set in stone. “Much of our perception of attractiveness is socially constructed,” Zucchelli clarifies. “Standards of beauty shift over generations and even within the same generation.”
Curiously, baldness has been admired throughout history, from ancient Egypt to the 18th century and the present-day people of Isini in Ghana.
Vincent van Gogh captured beauty in baldness in his painting, “On the Threshold of Eternity” (1890), commenting on the unique allure of an older, bald worker – Image credit: Alamy
Today, hair symbolizes youth, directly correlating with attractiveness and social worth. For women, it’s often seen as a marker of femininity and beauty, while for men, it signifies masculinity and youth.
This cultural significance underpins the rapid growth of the hair restoration industry, valued at 6.5 billion dollars (around 5.23 billion pounds). Projections suggest substantial increases in this market from now until 2030, indicating a strong societal impulse to treat hair loss.
“In my view, the growing medicalization of hair loss problems perpetuates the issue,” Zucchelli notes, emphasizing the escalating efficacy and costs of hair treatments.
Ultimately, whether to “fix” your baldness is a personal choice. For many, it marks a new chapter in their life, rather than a flaw worth erasing. If you decide against or cannot pursue restoration treatments, numerous effective strategies exist to bolster confidence and self-acceptance.
1. Emphasize Functionality
A beneficial approach involves reframing your body image. Instead of fixating on appearance, redirect your focus toward your body’s functionality.
For instance, skin serves as a protective barrier against infections while regulating temperature, and hair provides insulation and aids in sweat evaporation.
Acknowledging these biological functions can help shift your mindset toward self-acceptance.
“Fostering a positive body image can help guard against the emotional toll of hair loss,” says Zucchelli.
“This can be achieved through writing exercises that encourage awareness of your body’s capabilities.”
Micrograph showcasing hair follicles, vital components of the body’s insulation and temperature regulation systems – Image credit: Getty Images
An innovative program promoting this mindset is Expand Your Horizon, developed by Dr. Jessica Alleva and her colleagues at Maastricht University. This evidence-based method encourages individuals to document their bodies from a functionality-focused perspective.
One of the exercises involves writing uninterrupted about your body’s appearance and sensations for at least 15 minutes.
Research indicates its effectiveness.
“Post-intervention, participants in the Expand Your Horizon program reported lower levels of self-objectification, increased satisfaction with their appearance, functionality, and body appreciation,” according to a study published in Body Image by Areva and colleagues in 2015.
The objective is not self-love, but self-neutrality, aiming to reduce self-objectification and foster a healthier body image.
“A common misconception is the necessity of self-love,” explains Zucchelli. “It may not be realistic for everyone to love their appearance consistently.”
“Instead of focusing on loving your hair, aim for accepting it as part of you. Acceptance is crucial,” he emphasizes.
2. Enhance Media Literacy
A vital strategy to alleviate the emotional impact of hair loss involves reevaluating how we perceive hair-related media.
“We must critically examine all that we consume,” advises Zucchelli. “Understand how external influences shape your beliefs regarding hair loss.”
This concept, known as media literacy, involves recognizing the influences on body image from advertising, algorithms, celebrities, and social circles.
“The hair restoration industry is worth billions and is rapidly expanding,” states Glenn Jankowski, a health and social psychology assistant professor at University College Dublin, whose research centers on male body image.
“This influence is pervasive across both media and the internet, where ostensibly unbiased information often serves as marketing for treatments.”
According to the 2022 Body Image Survey, men experiencing hair loss report increased dissatisfaction due to social media influenced by appearance – Image credit: Getty Images
To counteract this, he suggests probing the commercial affiliations behind any hair loss-related content you consume.
“When reading articles, examine if there are sponsorships or corporate ties,” recommends Jankowski.
More structured tools, such as the DISCERN questionnaire from the University of Oxford, can help assess the quality of health treatment information.
This assessment consists of 16 questions to help evaluate whether treatment information is balanced, evidence-based, and transparent about risks and benefits to detect potential biases.
Sample questions include:
Are the sources used to compile the article clearly stated?
Are alternative treatment options acknowledged?
Is there an explanation of how each treatment functions?
Our digital landscape is saturated with algorithmically targeted advertisements. A single inquiry into a hair loss treatment can trigger a barrage of ads over subsequent weeks.
Even if reducing social media use isn’t on your agenda, consider adjusting your ad preferences to minimize exposure to unwanted topics.
Zucchelli describes a critical view of the media we consume as a “protective shield” for our body image, empowering you to ask yourself why certain feelings arise and who benefits from them.
Recognizing these influences can be liberating.
“It can significantly empower individuals,” Zucchelli notes.
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3. Connect with Others Sharing Similar Experiences
Hair loss can feel isolating, but remember, you are not alone. Baldness is a common aspect of aging that affects many.
Bald men abound, from celebs like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Jude Law to family members or acquaintances who reminisce about their once-full heads of hair.
Hollywood star Jason Statham started showing signs of baldness in his late 20s – Image courtesy of Getty Images
“I refer to these men as ‘hidden bald guys’—they’re more prevalent than one might think,” says Jankowski.
Across history, numerous influential bald figures, from Winston Churchill to ancient Egyptian leaders, have left their mark.
Including other types of hair loss like alopecia areata (autoimmune condition causing patchy loss), cicatricial alopecia (inflammation causing permanent loss), and chemotherapy-induced alopecia makes it evident that over half of us experience some form of hair loss.
If you’re experiencing hair loss, remember: you’re not alone. Connecting with others can foster community and facilitate acceptance.
“For some, discussing hair loss experiences with peers can accelerate the acceptance journey,” Zucchelli notes.
Online forums and support groups prove beneficial, especially if you lack personal connections dealing with similar challenges.
Approach them cautiously, as not all support networks are conducive; some may push medical solutions that invite comparisons. Seek spaces where empathy prevails over competition.
“Engage with others and share experiences—building a sense of community can be immensely powerful,” Jankowski advises.
4. Seek Expert Guidance if Necessary
Unfortunately, despite employing the previous strategies, hair loss can still impact your mental well-being. If feelings become overwhelming, consulting a mental health professional can provide coping mechanisms.
Zucchelli advocates for acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as particularly effective in addressing hair loss-related concerns. ACT enables individuals to acknowledge distressing thoughts and feelings without self-judgment while taking meaningful actions aligned with their values.
Conversations with others can help shift unhelpful thoughts about hair loss and refocus on what truly matters – Image credit: Getty Images
A crucial aspect of ACT is learning to perceive thoughts as mere thoughts, rather than truths—especially the misleading notion that baldness diminishes your romantic prospects. Distancing from these detrimental beliefs allows greater focus on what genuinely matters in life.
A common ACT technique involves recognizing and naming your thoughts: for instance, “I feel like my baldness is more noticeable.”
The ACT framework can also aid in managing unwanted attention or inquiries about your appearance by guiding your responses and permitting you to disclose as much as you’re comfortable sharing.
ACT isn’t the only therapeutic avenue available; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can tackle unproductive thoughts, while counseling offers a supportive space for emotional processing, and group therapy provides connections with individuals who understand your experiences.
5. Allow Yourself Time
Lastly, be gentle with yourself. Hair loss denotes a form of loss, and feeling sad is a natural response.
“Give yourself time to adapt to these changes; it’s perfectly acceptable,” Zucchelli reassures.
While the journey through baldness can feel daunting, the process often becomes easier once you accept this change. In the end, the reflection in the mirror is simply the new you.
As Jankowski wisely notes, many content bald men recognize the truth: “Actual hair loss is often more subtle than perceived.”
When you gather at the dinner table, do you taking just a few bites, burp, and quickly finish your meal, or do you savor every bite with small nibbles?
While we often know our eating speed instinctively, the pace at which you chew significantly affects digestion, weight management, and overall health.
“Research indicates that simply slowing down your eating rate can substantially decrease your energy intake,” says Professor Sarah Berry, a nutritionist at King’s College London.
Research shows that reducing your eating speed by just one-fifth can result in a significant 11% to 15% calorie reduction.
Conversely, those who eat quickly are at a higher risk for obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes compared to slower eaters.
Eating slowly with smaller portions can enhance digestion – Credit: Getty
Taking your time at meals can lead to less food intake, weight loss, and better digestion—all without feelings of hunger.
“If there’s one thing I’d change about tonight’s meal, it’s to slow down,” Berry advises.
The Benefits of Eating Slowly
Unlike calorie counting or carb restrictions, eating slowly is a natural weight loss strategy that reduces the desire to overeat.
Simply put, it’s the act of chewing that signals fullness, not just the digestion process. Chewing causes your stomach to stretch and triggers your intestines to release satiety hormones—chemical signals that inform your brain when you’re satisfied.
However, these mechanisms don’t respond immediately.
“These natural processes take time,” notes Professor Ciaran Forde at Wageningen University in the Netherlands, whose research focuses on how sensory input affects eating behavior. “There’s often a delay between eating and when your brain receives fullness signals.”
This lag can create a disconnect between consumption and perceived satiety. Eating too quickly can lead to overconsumption of calories before the brain registers fullness.
“These signals may reach your brain well after you’ve indulged in that 18th cookie, leaving you uncomfortably full,” Forde explains. “By then, it’s too late.”
While we can’t speed up these biological signals, we can create space for them by slowing down our eating pace.
Using chopsticks may encourage smaller bites and slower eating – Credit: Getty
A significant hormone involved in satiety is GLP-1, which is mimicked in popular weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wigovy, signaling your brain that you’re full.
Research from Waseda University in Japan found that participants released more GLP-1 when chewing shredded cabbage compared to swallowing pureed cabbage.
It’s effective in curbing appetite, allowing for less food intake without additional effort. Furthermore, in a 2021 study, Forde’s team discovered that slow eaters not only felt fuller but also exhibited a stronger insulin response to meals, improving their ability to process sugars.
“The initial stage of digestion happens behind the lips, not in the stomach,” Forde explains. “The way you chew can influence how your metabolism functions and your feeling of fullness post-meal, as your body prepares to digest nutrients.”
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Tips for Eating More Slowly
Eating slowly enhances feelings of fullness and optimizes your body’s metabolism. Yet, changing ingrained habits can be challenging.
For Berry, the key is mindfulness. “I often find myself distracted by the TV, which leads me to eat too quickly,” she admits. “We miss out on the family dining experience where we put down our utensils and engage in conversation.”
Eating in front of the TV can distract you from recognizing when you’re full – Credit: Getty
A simple approach is to turn off screens and enjoy meals with family. Engaging in pleasant conversation rather than focusing solely on your plate can create natural pauses in chewing.
Berry also suggests putting down your utensils between bites to help pace yourself.
Additionally, a study revealed that using chopsticks encourages smaller bites, better chewing, and overall slower eating.
Modify Your Diet
Turn off the screen, enjoy family meals, and employ chopsticks—these tactics can significantly improve your chewing habits.
Additionally, focus on making smart food choices that promote slower eating. Opting for chewier foods can naturally extend meal duration and reduce your appetite.
Forde’s research emphasizes this approach, as detailed in a popular study involving 41 healthy adults who participated in two distinct diets for two weeks.
Participants were free to eat as much as they wished, with meals designed for nutrition and taste, differing only in texture.
“We engineered the texture of these meals so that one required slower eating and the other was consumed quickly,” Forde explains.
“To our surprise, when participants weren’t given specific instructions, simply changing their meals to textured foods led them to consume an average of 370 fewer calories per day.” [with more textured food] “When they consumed soft foods, they collectively ingested around 5,200 extra calories over the two weeks. In contrast, the slow-eating diet resulted in adults losing nearly half a kilogram (1 pound) of body fat weekly.”
“These findings are significant, and we achieved this without issuing directives,” Forde states. “There were no labels or public health warnings—only the foods themselves drove the results.”
Soft, creamy, and sugary foods can lead to excessive calorie consumption – Credit: Getty
This means prioritizing crunchy meals over softer options, such as selecting crunchy rolls instead of soft buns, crispy roasted veggies over steamed ones, and grilled chicken instead of nuggets.
Forde emphasizes avoiding energy-dense, soft-textured foods and sugary drinks that you can consume quickly.
“Using excessive oil or sauce makes dishes easier to eat rapidly,” he warns. “High-fat, sweet, and creamy options can be inhaled effortlessly, leading to overconsumption. Before you know it, you’ve devoured three marshmallow tea cakes!”
Weight loss doesn’t need to be an exhausting struggle anymore. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, have transformed obesity treatment, offering remarkable results with just a simple injection.
Research indicates that adults taking the maximum doses can experience weight loss of over 20% of their body weight within 16 months, providing additional health benefits for the liver, heart, and brain.
This trend is gaining traction in the U.S., where nearly 12% of adults, or about 41 million people, have tried GLP-1 treatments. This phenomenon is also noted across the Atlantic, with an estimated 1.6 million adults in the UK using weight loss drugs last year.
While the rise of GLP-1 usage seems like a win for weight management, a hidden challenge may be emerging.
Recent studies reveal that many individuals begin to experience essential nutrient deficiencies shortly after starting these medications.
For instance, research from the Cleveland Clinic indicates that out of 460,000 adults prescribed GLP-1 drugs, nearly 20% developed a nutrient deficiency within a year, many without even realizing it.
Micronutrients like vitamins and minerals, and macronutrients including carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and fiber, are essential for the body’s health – Credit: Getty
Moreover, a separate study involving 480,000 GLP-1 users showed that 13.6% developed severe vitamin D deficiency within the first year, and approximately 60% didn’t get adequate iron or calcium from their diets.
The issue runs deeper. Another study suggests that GLP-1 drugs might deplete a range of vital nutrients, including magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A, C, D, and E.
“While these nutrients are required in small amounts, their importance cannot be overstated,” states Professor Giles Yeo, a specialist in neuroendocrinology and obesity at the University of Cambridge.
Additionally, adults on GLP-1 may also struggle to consume adequate protein and fiber.
Despite this prevalence, nutritional deficiencies often go unnoticed by healthcare providers, as many GLP-1 users are not monitored for their nutritional status. This oversight has been labeled a “major oversight” by professionals, as mentioned in a 2025 article in the International Journal of Obesity.
Dr. Stephen Heimsfield, director of the Metabolism and Body Composition Institute at Louisiana State University and lead author of the Cleveland Clinic study, emphasizes, “Obesity is a chronic disease that should be managed appropriately; this includes conducting nutritional blood tests if these medications are prescribed.”
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Smaller Portions, Bigger Problems
So why are these deficiencies occurring? It largely relates to how these drugs alter food consumption.
GLP-1 medications mimic the natural satiety hormone, leading users to feel satisfied with smaller amounts of food, which is pivotal for weight loss.
However, this also reduces the chances of obtaining all necessary nutrients daily.
“Many people on these drugs may not have had a nutritious diet to start with, often lacking fresh produce and relying heavily on ultra-processed foods that lack essential nutrients,” explains Yeo.
“If you simply take medication without adopting better dietary habits, you’ll likely consume less food, which is not ideal,” he continues. “Neglecting to improve your diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies.”
Nutrient deficiencies among GLP-1 users mirror those commonly found in the general population, such as vitamin D, calcium, and iron – Credit: Getty
Consequently, the deficiencies prevalent among GLP-1 users closely mirror those routinely observed in the general population. Common deficiencies include vitamin B12 and iodine among vegetarians and vegans, iron in menstruating women, and vitamin D in areas with limited sunlight exposure.
“These deficiencies are already fairly common,” Yeo adds, “and are likely to worsen with the use of GLP-1s.”
Moreover, these drugs not only limit dietary intake and heighten deficiency risk but may also lead to other side effects.
“GLP-1 treatment decreases food consumption but can also trigger gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea,” notes Dr. Heimsfield.
“With diarrhea, there’s a risk of losing nutrients that haven’t yet been absorbed.” In effect, some nutrients may be expelled from the body before absorption can occur.
This problem is significant, with nearly one-third of GLP-1 users experiencing diarrhea; almost a quarter report nausea and vomiting.
Tip the Scales
Experts warn that the scale of this issue is concerning. With millions currently using GLP-1 drugs, a significant proportion of the population may be facing nutritional deficiencies without their knowledge.
“This is important,” asserts Heimsfield. “We should not assume GLP-1s are completely safe. Only time will reveal the long-term implications of these deficiencies.”
In severe cases, nutritional deficiencies can escalate into medical emergencies. Some individuals have been diagnosed with a severe neurological condition characterized by slurred speech and disorientation due to vitamin B deficiency linked to GLP-1 medications.
Without strict nutritional monitoring, taking daily supplements may help mitigate deficiencies – Credit: Getty
While such cases are rare, common vitamin D deficiency can have severe long-term health consequences for the broader population.
Dr. Heimsfield notes that low vitamin D levels may lead to bone loss (osteoporosis), increasing frailty risks in older adults. Additionally, insufficient protein intake can escalate the risk of losing muscle mass—a condition known as sarcopenia—with weight loss.
“Individuals who are obese at 70 and using these drugs could be inadvertently heading toward sarcopenia and frailty,” warns Heimsfield, increasing their chances of falls and fractures later in life.
A Tale of Two Diets
This growing issue is a “real concern,” Yeo states. “It’s crucial to recognize that many users of GLP-1s are well-off, often with less concern about their initial dietary habits.”
Indeed, most GLP-1 users in the UK acquire the drug privately, with monthly expenses often exceeding hundreds of dollars in the U.S. Consequently, these individuals are likely more affluent and capable of affording nutritious food.
Nevertheless, the emergence of new pill formulations of GLP-1 may eventually reduce costs and increase accessibility for a broader audience.
“At some point, a significant number of less fortunate individuals, many of whom are not in control of their food choices, may gain access to these drugs, which could pose serious challenges,” remarks Yeo.
While supplements can help mitigate specific micronutrient deficiencies, Yeo stresses that they are not a substitute for proper medical guidance for those on GLP-1.
“We’re not trying to alarm anyone, as these drugs are indeed powerful tools,” he concludes. “However, we must be vigilant regarding micronutrients, which are already common deficiencies that can worsen when diets are restricted.”
Red blood cells can be enhanced to improve wound healing
3D Media Sphere/Science Photo Library
Recent studies show that simple modifications to red blood cells, which transport oxygen in our bodies, can dramatically halt severe bleeding almost instantly. In trials on rats with severe liver injuries, modified blood led to the formation of clots within just five seconds, significantly reducing blood loss. This breakthrough raises hopes for its application in both scheduled and emergency surgical procedures.
Approximately 2 million individuals die globally from blood loss, and the risk escalates with each passing year of continued bleeding. In less severe cases, blood clots can form rapidly; however, critical situations often necessitate expensive blood transfusions, which can be challenging to administer urgently and may involve bandages that provoke immune responses, hindering healing processes.
Red blood cells not only carry oxygen but also aggregate with platelets, tiny cell fragments responsible for halting bleeding, to create a sticky mesh that seals injuries. Red blood cells constitute the majority of this plug, but due to their inherent fragility, Lee Jianyu and his colleagues from McGill University, Montreal, are striving to enhance their strength. “We recognized the elephant in the room,” he noted.
The researchers initially collected blood from rats, separating various cellular components. They then introduced chemicals that function like handles: one side binds to proteins on the red blood cell surface, while the other interacts with long-chain molecules that help bind the cells together.
The modified cells were then reintegrated into the liquid component of blood, known as plasma, and injected into the rats’ severe liver wounds. In stark contrast to untreated rats, which took 265 seconds to clot, treated rats began clotting in under 5 seconds, with only a minimal loss of 24 milligrams of blood compared to nearly 2,000 milligrams in the untreated group.
Unlike natural blood clots that dissolve within a few days, these modified clots remain intact for one to two months, offering extended time for wound healing processes to occur, as noted by Lee. Furthermore, the study did not present any safety concerns at this stage.
“This is a ground-breaking study demonstrating a novel approach to designing cell-based biomaterials for surgical and regenerative purposes,” commented Hyun Woo Yook, founder of SanaHeal, a Boston-based firm focused on bioadhesive technology.
Researchers aspire that in the future, a small sample of a patient’s blood could be collected before a planned surgical procedure and processed within just 30 minutes. In emergency scenarios, therapeutic drugs could be prepared from blood bank samples and stored at low temperatures for up to a month. However, Jayachandran Kizakkedatu, a researcher at the University of British Columbia, highlights that while current treatments can last long, cellular materials like these face a considerable challenge with a limited shelf life compared to synthetic alternatives.
Lee mentioned that his team has applied for a patent and is planning further research to explore these promising findings.
Many people believe that food becomes less enjoyable as we age. While age plays a role, various other factors contribute to this phenomenon.
We are born with around 9,000 taste buds located on the papillae of the tongue. These taste buds regenerate every few weeks.
However, this regeneration slows down as we age. After around age 50, there is often an overall decline in taste buds, and existing ones may become less sensitive.
Not everyone experiences this decline uniformly, but some may find that food loses its appeal as they age. Still, it’s not solely about age.
Factors such as genetics, dental issues, medications, chronic health conditions, smoking, and nasal problems can also affect our sense of taste.
Moreover, our sense of smell significantly impacts how we perceive flavor. As we age, the number of olfactory receptor cells and the function of nasal mucous membranes decline, dulling our taste perception.
Temporary loss of smell, such as during a cold, can create similar effects, rendering food significantly bland.
As our sense of taste weakens, food preferences often shift. Salty and sweet flavors become more pronounced, leading many to favor these tastes as they age.
However, caution is essential; increased salt intake can affect blood pressure, while consuming sweets can lead to weight gain.
Intense flavors like sour citrus can awaken even the dullest of palates – Credit: Getty
So, can we prevent our sense of taste from dulling? While we can’t halt the aging process, certain habits may enhance our taste perception.
For instance, staying well-hydrated helps maintain saliva production; avoiding smoking (which harms taste buds), managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, and reviewing medications that cause dry mouth can all help.
Incorporating sharp flavors can also invigorate our taste experience. Foods like citrus fruits, sorbets, and mint often strike a stronger chord with our taste buds.
Marinating foods with vinegar, dressings, mustard, herbs, and spices can significantly enhance flavor and is often a better approach than merely increasing salt and sugar.
While it’s common for some individuals to experience a decline in taste as they age, with mindful habits and a touch of culinary adventure, many can continue to savor vibrant flavors well into their later years.
This article addresses the question posed by Kian Wilkinson from Lancaster: “Can we prevent our sense of taste from becoming dull as we age?”
If you have any questions, feel free to email us at:questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out viaFacebook,Twitter, orInstagram(please include your name and location).
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If a parent or grandparent frequently forgets names, misplaces items, or retells the same stories, many people would immediately consider a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. For decades, Alzheimer’s has dominated public perception of dementia, serving as a catch-all term for memory loss.
However, this assumption is increasingly being challenged. Neurologists have discovered that a significant number of individuals exhibiting Alzheimer’s-like symptoms actually suffer from a different condition, which many families and even healthcare professionals are only beginning to understand.
This condition is known as LATE, short for limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy. Research indicates that LATE is responsible for approximately 15-20% of all dementia cases, disproportionately affecting 1 in 3 individuals over the age of 85.
LATE was formally defined in 2019, and clinical guidelines clarifying its diagnosis were published just last year.
Dr. Andrew Budson, Chief of Cognitive Behavioral Neurology at the Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System and Professor of Neurology at Boston University, states, “I didn’t know how common it was until I started testing people for biomarkers.”
He adds, “It became evident that many individuals we previously thought had Alzheimer’s actually did not, despite exhibiting nearly identical clinical symptoms.”
As understanding of these distinctions evolves, so too does the meaning behind a dementia diagnosis. If your elderly relative’s memory loss is attributed to LATE instead of Alzheimer’s disease, it may progress more gradually and remain more focused.
Symptoms of LATE
LATE is primarily characterized by gradual memory loss, particularly regarding recent events—often referred to as episodic memory. Patients may experience difficulties remembering conversations, appointments, or even television shows viewed the previous night.
As LATE advances, speech may also be impacted. Some individuals struggle to find words, while others may forget the meanings of familiar terms. Dr. Budson recalls a patient who could no longer grasp the meaning of the word “Charade” and later became confused about what a pumpkin was. “It’s as though they grew up in a world without pumpkins,” he notes.
LATE leads to gradual memory loss into very old age, but often lacks the widespread cognitive impairment seen in Alzheimer’s disease – Photo credit: Getty
Over time, subtle behavioral changes may arise. “When the lower frontal lobes are affected, behavioral issues can surface,” explains Budson. “It’s not severe, but individuals may lose their inhibitions, leading to socially inappropriate comments about others’ appearance.”
A key difference between LATE and Alzheimer’s is the disease’s tempo. LATE generally presents later in life, typically in the late 70s or 80s, and progresses more slowly, allowing individuals to experience isolated memory loss for many years before cognitive abilities decline significantly.
Dr. David Wolk, a professor of neurology at the University of Pennsylvania, states, “In LATE, the slow and progressive memory loss can persist for years even in the absence of other significant symptoms.” This gradual trajectory can greatly improve a family’s quality of life and long-term planning.
Complicating matters is the fact that LATE often coexists with Alzheimer’s disease. Up to half of LATE patients may exhibit Alzheimer-type pathology in their brains, which can exacerbate decline when both conditions are present, according to Dr. Wolk.
Differentiating Between Late-Life Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Normal Aging
Distinguishing early dementia from normal age-related forgetfulness is challenging. Many healthy older adults find themselves slower at recalling names, needing reminders, or struggling to multitask.
The critical difference lies in the memory mechanism. In normal aging, difficulties usually stem from retrieving stored information, as Prompts can often help refresh a person’s memory.
Conversely, in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease, the memory trace itself may be irretrievably lost. Budson likens memory to a filing system: the frontal lobe acts as a clerk, gathering information and directing it to appropriate storage within the hippocampus, the cabinet that houses this data.
In normal aging, office inefficiencies arise; repetition becomes necessary, retrieval slows, but information, when entered, remains accessible. Alzheimer’s disease and LATE, however, damage the filing cabinet itself, leading to lost information despite skilled clerks.
Alzheimer’s disease spreads rapidly, affecting multiple brain networks, including memory, planning, problem-solving, spatial awareness, and language. In contrast, LATE tends to concentrate its impact on memory, progressing at a slower pace overall.
Pathologically, Alzheimer’s disease is marked by amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles, while LATE is driven by TDP-43 aggregates. This distinction becomes vital as new treatments target specific biological pathways.
Brain scans and biomarker tests can rule out Alzheimer’s disease, enabling timely diagnosis of LATE – Photo credit: Getty
Understanding the Basis of LATE
At its core, LATE is caused by a malfunctioning protein. In healthy neurons, proteins maintain structure and function. In LATE, TDP-43 protein aggregates within neurons, leading to cell damage and death.
This protein was first linked to ALS and a type of frontotemporal dementia around 20 years ago. Researchers found that TDP-43 often appears in older brains, triggering a specific memory loss pattern that justifies its own diagnosis.
Three primary brain structures are significantly affected by LATE, explains Budson: the hippocampus, the lateral temporal lobe, and the lower frontal lobe. Each area is crucial for cognition, affecting memory formation, language comprehension, and impulse control.
The hippocampus, highlighted in red, is vital for memory formation – Photo credit: Getty
Can Doctors Diagnose LATE?
For a long time, LATE could only be diagnosed post-mortem through direct examination of brain tissue, which still serves as the gold standard. However, clinicians are increasingly utilizing cognitive tests and biomarker evidence to suspect LATE during a patient’s lifetime.
Dr. Budson explains, “If a biomarker test for Alzheimer’s comes back negative, I infer, ‘This is likely LATE.’ Therefore, in individuals demonstrating Alzheimer-like memory issues but lacking amyloid or tau—key Alzheimer’s indicators—LATE emerges as a viable possibility.
One pressing question for patients and families is whether a LATE diagnosis changes treatment options. The answer is complex; new Alzheimer’s treatments target amyloid pathways and are less effective for LATE patients. However, older Alzheimer’s medications that enhance acetylcholine—a neurotransmitter involved in memory—may still offer benefits. Dr. Wolk acknowledges, “There’s evidence that acetylcholine declines in late life, too.”
Dr. Budson encourages not to abandon treatment prematurely, asserting, “I’m confident that many LATE patients were included in clinical trials leading to these drugs’ approval.” He reassures, “Patients and doctors should continue treatment even if Alzheimer’s isn’t the diagnosis, as it will likely benefit LATE patients as well.”
Correctly identifying LATE can guide doctors in determining the most effective dementia treatments – Photo credit: Getty
Currently, no treatments specifically target TDP-43 in LATE, though one clinical trial is underway. Dr. Wolk notes that insights from ALS and frontotemporal dementia could be instrumental in future applications.
You may think that differentiating between dementia types is insignificant due to limited treatments and similar outcomes; however, accurate diagnosis is crucial. Understanding that LATE progresses slowly allows families to plan care, preserve independence, and set realistic expectations.
From a scientific standpoint, precise diagnosis is essential for conducting clinical trials effectively and understanding treatment impacts. As the population ages, conditions primarily affecting the elderly—like LATE—will become more prevalent.
Dr. Wolk emphasizes, “LATE is highly common and progresses slowly, providing insight into age-related cognitive decline before it transcends normal aging.” As society ages, addressing this condition will pose a growing public health concern.
While LATE may not receive the same level of publicity as Alzheimer’s disease, many families are already grappling with its implications.
Dr. Budson provides a realistic perspective: “LATE typically advances slowly and affects individuals later in life; many don’t become severely ill before passing from other causes. While that may not be comforting, it is realistic.” What LATE reveals is the complexity hidden beneath the term dementia: similar symptoms can arise from different biological mechanisms, leading to varied decline rates, risks, and treatment responses.
The distinction may not change daily care for patients and families, but as diagnostic tools improve, they increasingly influence clinicians’ predictions about future developments, how research trials are structured, and the direction of emerging treatments.
If you think losing weight is easy, you’re not alone. With wellness influencers and fitness publications promoting “simple” transformation programs, it may seem manageable.
Moreover, there’s a massive weight loss market, projected by industry forecasts to exceed £380bn ($500bn) in the next decade.
However, the challenge of losing weight is often overlooked. For beginners, the weight loss journey can be particularly difficult. Many diets fail within weeks, and research indicates individuals who lose weight often regain it within a few years.
Currently, two-thirds of adults in the UK are classified as overweight, with nearly three-quarters in the US facing similar challenges. Evidence suggests that losing weight can enhance both the quality and lifespan of individuals.
In fact, studies from 2025 indicate that shedding just 5% of body weight—even if some is eventually regained—can lead to significant health improvements in obese individuals, such as lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, healthier liver function, decreased inflammation, and better sleep quality.
Yet, research published in Heart in 2025 highlighted that weight fluctuations can pose serious health risks, especially for obese individuals with cardiovascular issues.
So, what’s the solution? Focus on steady, sustainable weight loss by adopting a healthier lifestyle that you can maintain long-term.
We consulted leading experts and reviewed the latest weight loss research to uncover effective strategies. Here are six actionable tips to kickstart your weight loss journey in the first 100 days.
Understand Your Challenges
Weight loss is more than just calorie restriction and willpower. The real adversary is our evolutionary history, which has wired our bodies to resist weight loss.
Consuming 500 calories can happen quickly when temptation strikes – Image credit: Getty Images
Dr. Rachel Woods, a physiology researcher at the University of Lincoln, explains, “When we enter a calorie deficit, our bodies react on an evolutionary level.”
When weight loss begins, our bodies increase hunger hormones and decrease energy expenditure in subtle ways. Dr. Woods adds, “You may notice you’re moving less throughout the day.” Our metabolic rate also declines, which is counterproductive in today’s food-rich society.
Set Realistic Goals
Adopting SMART goals can streamline your fat-loss journey – Image credit: Getty Images
While drastically cutting calories and ramping up exercise can yield rapid weight loss, Dr. Woods warns of sustainability. Instead, aim for a realistic goal of losing 5% of your body weight.
Envision where you’d like to be in three years—not just three months. Implement manageable changes that lead to results over time.
Dr. Laura Kudlek from the University of Cambridge advocates for SMART goals: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, instead of “I want to lose weight,” try “I’ll walk for 15 minutes after lunch three times this week.”
Incorporate Weightlifting
Previously, losing weight primarily centered around cardio. However, recent findings suggest that incorporating weightlifting can be equally beneficial.
“Weight training increases muscle mass,” states Dr. Woods. “More muscle means your body burns more calories, even at rest.”
Research suggests lighter weights for high reps can provide similar effects to heavy weights – Image courtesy of Getty Images
Diversify Your Exercise Routine
Every bit of movement counts toward your weight loss goals. Evidence shows that sufficient aerobic exercise can effectively reduce body fat.
A 2024 review indicates that achieving significant weight loss requires 150 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly. While daunting, small mindset shifts can make a difference.
Professor Adam Collins from the University of Surrey emphasizes, “Fitness should be the primary goal, not just calorie burning.” Increased physical activity promotes more activity, leading to a cycle of enjoyment and health.
Fuel Your Workouts
With countless nutritional guidelines available, beginners can feel overwhelmed. The key is to ensure you consume more energy than you expend.
Enhancing your intake of plant-based foods can help curb cravings for calorie-dense options – Image courtesy of Getty Images
Failing to do so can result in losing not just fat but also valuable lean muscle mass. Ensure your diet includes sufficient protein to preserve lean muscle during resistance training.
Prepare for Plateaus
Many weight loss programs encounter challenges, whether from decreasing motivation, life events, or metabolic adjustments. Dr. Collins notes, “Hitting a plateau often means achieving energy balance.”
After losing about 10% of your weight, maintaining your energy balance becomes crucial. If you wish to continue losing, you’ll need to cut more calories.
“Strive for a goal of losing approximately 5% of body weight,” suggests Dr. Collins – Image credit: Getty Images
This period offers opportunities to boost fitness levels through increased exercise intensity and refined dietary habits.
Dr. Kudlek advises treating weight like blood pressure—requiring ongoing management rather than a one-time fix. It may take six weeks to develop sustainable habits.
Expect challenges, and don’t shy away from reaching out for support. Every individual is different, and finding a suitable approach may take some experimentation.
It’s curious: as the years go by, the scale doesn’t seem to reflect the passage of time. You may have heard that metabolism slows with age, but what does that really mean for the average person?
No matter how you look at it, you’re likely just as active, if not more so, than in your youth, and your appetite remains unchanged.
So why is weight gain still so common?
Research published in the journal Cell Metabolism suggests that changes in the shape of melanocortin 4 (MC4) receptors in the brain might hold the answer.
Not familiar with MC4 receptors? You’re not alone. However, understanding these receptors could be crucial in tackling age-related obesity.
MC4 receptors have been a focal point in obesity research for some time. Here’s what we know:
MC4 receptors are primarily located in the hypothalamus, the brain’s control center. These receptors are found on neurons that integrate hormonal signals to manage appetite and energy balance.
According to Kazuhiro Nakamura, the senior author of the study and a physiologist at Nagoya University, “MC4 receptors receive satiety signals and help regulate metabolism while suppressing appetite.”
This “satiety signal” notifies the body when it’s full, controlled by hormones like melanocortin and leptin acting on MC4 and other receptors that dictate when to stop eating and when to ramp up energy expenditure.
As you likely know, the balance of food intake and energy expenditure is central to weight management, with MC4 receptors playing a pivotal role.
Previous studies indicate that individuals with genetic mutations affecting the MC4 receptor are more prone to weight gain from childhood onward. Despite only 1 in 500 individuals having this genetic defect, the prevalence of severely obese children can be as high as 5 in 100, making MC4 receptor deficiency the most common monogenic cause of obesity.
While it’s clear that MC4 receptors are crucial to our weight, they don’t fully explain the gradual weight gain associated with aging. Fortunately, Nakamura and his team have some insights to share.
Discover More:
What Happens to MC4 Receptors as We Age?
Research indicates that as rats age, neuronal “antennas” called “primary cilia,” which contain MC4 receptors, shorten, leading to a decrease in MC4 receptor numbers.
Professor Nakamura explains, “Shortening antennae with age results in decreased metabolism and increased appetite, contributing to obesity in middle age.”
Although this study focused on rats, past research links changes in MC4 receptors to weight gain in both animals and potentially humans. “We suspect a similar mechanism could be present in humans,” says Nakamura.
The researchers employed genetic engineering to shorten the antennae of young rats, resulting in increased food intake and reduced fat burning, leading to weight gain. They also discovered that rats lacking the MC4 receptor were resistant to the appetite-suppressing hormone leptin, much like obese humans.
Aging and poor diet contribute to the shortening of primary cilia containing MC4R, linked to obesity in rats – Image courtesy of Kazuhiro Nakamura
However, some researchers urge caution against drawing premature conclusions. “It’s too early to definitively state this because the studies have only been conducted in rats, and we’re missing key pieces of the puzzle,” says Sadaf Farooqi, Professor of Metabolism and Medicine at the University of Cambridge.
She emphasizes that age-related weight gain is complex, involving factors like hormones, muscle mass loss, and decreased metabolic rate. “This suggests that critical genes and molecules regulating body weight might change with age,” she notes.
All Is Not Lost: Here’s What You Can Do
On the bright side, the findings highlight a potential solution. While the antenna shortening process may be concerning, it can be slowed down through simple lifestyle changes.
Maintaining a healthy diet and practicing calorie moderation are crucial. These measures not only aid in weight management but may also preserve your MC4 receptor-rich antennae as you age. Studies have shown that rats on high-fat diets experience quicker shortening of their MC4-containing cilia compared to those on healthier, calorie-restricted diets.
As Nakamura states, “Our findings underscore the importance of avoiding overeating. While calorie restriction can be challenging, it aids in reducing fat storage due to excessive energy intake.”
Moreover, he advises that adopting moderate eating habits is essential for preserving the cilia that keep the brain’s anti-obesity mechanisms functioning optimally as we age.
Lastly, consistent exercise is vital—not just for burning calories. “In middle-aged and older adults, exercise plays a crucial role in muscle maintenance,” says Farooqi. Maintaining muscle mass is important because muscle burns calories efficiently. Incorporating resistance training and ensuring adequate protein intake (recommended at about 20 grams per meal) can significantly help.
If you’re seeking a more advanced option, don’t be discouraged. Nakamura explains that the research team succeeded in engineering a protein that prevents the shortening of antennae, which allowed rats to shed excess weight.
In the meantime, Professor Farooqi highlights that treatments aimed at enhancing the MC4 pathway may benefit individuals facing midlife weight gain, particularly menopausal women. “While we still need more evidence, this is a promising avenue worth exploring,” she remarks.
About Our Experts
Kazuhiro Nakamura: Professor at Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, his research interests include central nervous circuits, thermoregulation, and metabolism. His work has been published in leading journals such as Frontiers of Life Science and Neuroscience Journal.
Sadaf Farooqi: Professor of Metabolism and Medicine at the University of Cambridge and Honorary Consultant in Diabetes and Endocrinology at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge. Farooqi is a leading figure in obesity research, having identified key genetic disorders related to severe childhood obesity and understanding appetite control mechanisms.
A new class of weight loss medications is generating excitement with remarkable results, and for many, it delivers. However, if you reach your desired weight after months of weekly injections and choose to discontinue the medication, here’s what you should know: the chances of regaining the lost weight are high.
Research indicates that obese individuals can shed 15% to 20% of their body weight within approximately a year. When treatment is halted, studies suggest you might regain about two-thirds of the weight you shed over the next 12 months.
These medications, commonly referred to as GLP-1 agonists, are available under various brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. They imitate naturally occurring hormones that induce feelings of fullness, thereby suppressing appetite and promoting weight loss. However, these effects persist only while you’re actively taking the drug.
This applies whether the medication is used for cosmetic weight loss or as preventive care against conditions linked to weight, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
The solution might seem straightforward: continue taking the medication. Yet, not everyone can sustain weekly injections for life due to factors like high costs and potential side effects.
“Being in treatment permanently typically isn’t what people seek, especially if they’re funding it themselves,” states Professor Susan Jebb, a nutritionist at the University of Oxford. “People aspire to lose weight and sustain it.”
About half of the people who initiate weight loss medication will discontinue it within a year. If you fall into this category, there’s a significant chance you’ll regain lost weight, but there’s also a range of strategies to help maintain your progress.
Transitioning off weight loss drugs involves cultivating healthy habits and managing appetite – Credit: Getty
Understanding Weight Gain Challenges
After any type of weight loss, whether achieved naturally or through medication, the risk of regaining that weight exists. This dilemma has been a longstanding challenge for nutritionists.
“Maintaining weight loss is a significant hurdle in effective weight management. We have numerous methods to assist individuals in losing weight, yet the focus on sustaining weight loss is lacking,” emphasizes Jebb.
After substantial weight loss, the body’s inclination is to reclaim the original weight. Consuming even modest meals can result in weight gain due to heightened hunger levels coupled with a slowdown in metabolism.
Weight loss medications complicate this issue. While they simulate satiety hormones such as GLP-1, they can diminish the body’s natural fullness signals. Consequently, ceasing the medication may intensify hunger, making maintenance tricky.
As a result, weight regain can occur swiftly. Research by Jebb’s team at the University of Oxford found that patients typically regain their previous weight within two years of discontinuing the treatment. However, individual responses vary widely.
“There is considerable variability,” Jebb remarks. “Determining why some individuals succeed while others don’t remains unclear.” Until further insights arise, Jebb and other nutritionists advise reverting to established recommendations of diets and exercise. While this may not be ideal, particularly following struggles with conventional methods, it remains the best course of action available.
Read more:
Preparations for Discontinuation
According to Professor Giles Yeo of the University of Cambridge, preparing for success prior to ending weight loss medications is vital.
“Utilize your time on medication to cultivate new habits,” suggests Yeo. “With appetite suppression, you’ll find it more manageable to adopt healthier eating behaviors.”
When hunger is suppressed, it’s easier to modify eating patterns such as emotional or mindless snacking, he explains.
Establishing sustainable habits during medication use can provide a significant advantage in maintaining weight loss long-term, according to Yeo.
Increasing physical activity isn’t necessarily a weight loss strategy but effective for preventing weight regain – Credit: Getty
Yeo also advocates for incorporating exercise into your routine while on weight loss medications. Studies reveal that physical activity aids weight maintenance, with a Danish study from 2024 showing participants in a post-medication exercise regimen were more likely to retain at least 10% of their weight loss.
“This emphasizes how beneficial exercise can be,” Jebb points out. “This finding particularly applies to individuals committed to structured and supervised exercise routines.”
Effective Appetite Management Strategies
While establishing healthy habits is crucial, managing appetite without medication poses additional challenges, particularly when cravings strike. However, smart dietary choices can mitigate these urges.
Focus on nutrient-rich foods such as protein and fiber instead of carbohydrates.
“Both protein and fiber travel further along the digestive tract and naturally stimulate GLP-1 release, enhancing feelings of fullness,” explains Yeo. “Your aim is to maintain elevated GLP-1 levels through your diet. While it won’t reach levels achieved through medication, striving for this is essential.”
Research suggests that certain foods, like eggs, can enhance satiety. One study found that consuming eggs for breakfast could lead to prolonged fullness compared to higher-carb options like cereal or toast, consequently decreasing lunch intake.
Other protein-rich foods such as red meat, fish, tofu, and Greek yogurt may yield similar benefits.
Additionally, incorporating certain ingredients like fat or fiber can slightly increase GLP-1 levels. Foods like berry, olive oil, nuts, avocados, oats, lentils, beans, green onions, onions, and asparagus are recommended.
Lastly, practicing mindful eating by consuming meals slowly can significantly improve feelings of fullness, even if the portion sizes remain consistent.
“Eating slowly, increasing fiber intake, incorporating more protein, and reducing sugar are all beneficial strategies,” Jebb states. “There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; these are all incremental improvements we know work.”
High-fiber foods like beans, legumes, and vegetables can promote satiety, slow energy release, and enhance fullness compared to refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta – Credit: Getty
Looking Ahead for Weight Management Solutions
While developing healthier eating habits and increasing physical activity can be beneficial, these measures may not be sufficient to prevent weight regain for everyone.
“Reducing food intake requires conscious effort, and many struggle to implement this independently,” comments Jebb. “If you’re using these medications, genetic predispositions to overweight may play a role.”
Yeo notes these strategies may only benefit a subset of the population, primarily those whose weight issues are more attributed to lifestyle than genetics.
“Obesity exists on a spectrum,” he explains. “The severity of one’s obesity and its underlying causes will largely influence the effectiveness of any approach.”
For individuals needing medical assistance to sustain weight loss, help is on the horizon. Pharmaceutical companies are innovating low-dose weight loss medications, available in both pill and injection forms, intended to aid gradual weaning off while minimizing weight regain.
Nevertheless, research indicates that even temporary weight loss can yield long-lasting health benefits.
“Taking the time to reach a healthy weight will produce positive long-term outcomes,” asserts Yeo. “And the longer you maintain a healthy weight, the better your future prospects. Thus, even if you regain some weight, the benefits of the drugs remain considerable.”
As spring approaches and you notice a few extra pounds, remember: it’s a product of evolution, not just the tempting family-sized tin of chocolate.
Humans are biologically designed to accumulate fat during colder months. In chilly weather, our bodies tend to burn more calories while being less active.
This is an evolutionary adaptation from pre-industrial eras, when food was scarce, leading our bodies to store fat as energy for the winter season.
However, in today’s world, this scarcity is often a myth. Modern conveniences like refrigeration, long-distance shipping, and enticing 3-for-2 deals on snacks mean that winter has transformed into a time of indulgent excess rather than depletion.
This evolutionary response makes it challenging to stick to winter weight loss resolutions. Our bodies react to a dip in calorie intake by ramping up our appetite or subtly reducing energy expenditure.
If you find yourself carrying extra weight after the winter season, there might be an unexpected solution: perhaps gaining a bit of weight could help you lose weight.
Add Weight to Lose Weight
In a 2025 study, researchers explored the effectiveness of weighted vests for weight loss. A weighted vest features pockets for weights and can weigh anywhere from 3 to 30 kg (or even more if you want to channel your inner robot).
A small study published in the International Journal of Obesity followed overweight participants for two years. They were divided into two groups: one underwent calorie restriction, while the other wore weighted vests for 10 hours daily.
Both groups saw weight loss in the first six months, but two years later, both regained weight—a common yo-yo effect. What’s intriguing is that the calorie-restricted group regained all their lost weight, while those with the weighted vests only regained half.
Why is this the case? Researchers discovered that the resting metabolic rate (RMR)—the calories burned during basic functions—was higher in those wearing the vests.
“Lower RMR after weight loss often leads to weight regain, so maintaining RMR helped participants stay at a lower body weight,” explains Professor Kristen Beavers, a health and exercise scientist at Wake Forest University and co-author of the study. “Those with a higher RMR retained more of the weight they lost.”
This research further emphasizes how resistance training—like weightlifting and bodyweight workouts—can effectively support long-term weight loss. Weighted vests fit perfectly into this regimen, as they increase energy expenditure during movement.
“Adding weight makes your muscles, bones, and cardiovascular system work harder for activities like walking or climbing stairs,” Beavers states. “This increased effort raises the calorie cost of exercise, allowing for more calories burned without changing the type or duration of activity.
Moreover, the added weight acts as resistance training, contributing to muscle mass and strength over time. Since muscle tissue burns more calories at rest compared to fat, maintaining or increasing muscle mass boosts resting metabolic rate and aids in weight loss.
Gaining weight can be an effective strategy for weight loss – Photo credit: Getty Images
How to Use a Weighted Vest
If you’re considering incorporating weighted vests into your routine, Beavers offers some advice. Start with gradually added weight as most people find these vests comfortable after a brief adjustment period. Pay attention to your posture to avoid discomfort or injury.
Ensure the vest’s weight is significant; literature suggests that wearing a load of about 8% to 10% of your body weight can effectively impact energy balance and body weight regulation.
The impact also varies based on the duration of wear—whether you’re just lounging or exercising.
As research continues to substantiate the weight-loss benefits of weighted vests, studies also explore their positive effects on bone and cardiovascular health. In other words, this wearable could significantly enhance your overall health.
Intermittent Fasting: A Closer Look at Its Effectiveness for Weight Loss
Catherine Falls Commercial/Getty Images
Recent studies indicate that intermittent fasting may not be as effective for weight loss as previously thought, raising questions about its efficacy compared to other dieting methods.
Intermittent fasting has gained popularity as a weight management strategy, characterized by alternating fasting and eating periods. Popular methods include the 16:8 approach, which involves fasting for 16 hours and consuming food within an 8-hour window, and the 5:2 diet, where normal eating occurs for five days, followed by a significant calorie restriction on two days.
The hypothesis behind intermittent fasting is that it will lead to reduced caloric intake. However, a recent randomized controlled trial showed no significant difference in weight loss when compared to traditional calorie-counting methods.
In a comprehensive analysis led by Luis Garegnani, researchers from the Buenos Aires Italian Hospital reviewed data from 22 randomized controlled trials involving approximately 2,000 overweight or obese adults from regions including North America, Europe, China, Australia, and South America. Participants aged 18 to 80 were included in the study.
The results suggested that there was likely no significant difference in weight loss when comparing intermittent fasting to established dietary practices. Furthermore, when placed against a control group doing nothing, intermittent fasting showed similar results. “Intermittent fasting does not appear effective for individuals struggling to lose weight,” Garegnani stated in a press release.
Despite these findings, variability among trials complicates definitive conclusions. Nonetheless, when results were segmented by gender or by the type of intermittent fasting practiced, the overall effectiveness for weight loss remained questionable.
Furthermore, Satchidananda Panda from California’s Salk Institute for Biological Studies emphasized that many trials included in this review did not accurately monitor participants’ adherence to intermittent fasting protocols. He remarked, “What are we analyzing if we don’t even know if participants followed the fasting guidelines?”
Since the primary focus of this analysis was weight loss, it remains unclear if intermittent fasting offers additional health benefits or negative consequences. Some studies propose that it may elevate heart disease risk, while others suggest potential improvements in immunity and liver and gut health.
“Intermittent fasting should not be viewed as a panacea,” Garegnani concluded. “While it may serve as a strategy for some, it should complement broader public health initiatives aimed at combating obesity.”
Exercise has numerous benefits, but weight loss might not be one of them.
Jeffrey Isaac Greenberg 5+/Alamy
Engaging in regular exercise is extremely beneficial for overall health; however, it may not effectively lead to weight loss. Recent studies provide compelling evidence explaining this phenomenon.
While individuals who up their exercise routine often burn extra calories, weight loss usually doesn’t align with the caloric expenditure expected. A meta-analysis of 14 trials indicates that our bodies often compensate by reducing energy expenditure in other activities.
Notably, the compensatory effects are pronounced when one combines reduced caloric intake with increased exercise, effectively negating the hoped-for weight loss benefits of physical activity. In simpler terms, while dietary restrictions can lead to weight loss, increasing exercise alongside dieting may yield minimal additional benefits.
“The real challenge here is that when you combine exercise and dieting, the body compensates more aggressively,” explains Herman Pontzer of Duke University, North Carolina. “Exercise is still beneficial, but weight loss isn’t guaranteed.”
In his research on the Hadza hunter-gatherers of Tanzania, Pontzer found that despite their high activity levels, they did not expend more energy than sedentary individuals. This led him to propose, back in 2015, that our bodies may have evolved to conserve energy through reduced expenditure when faced with increased physical activity.
Although some studies support this compensation theory, not all experts agree. Pontzer and fellow researcher Eric Trexler at Duke have examined existing studies that were designed for other purposes, ensuring their analysis was unbiased. They analyzed 14 trials involving around 450 participants—small due to the rigorous methods needed to monitor total energy expenditure.
Their findings revealed an average energy expenditure increase of only one-third of expectations based on increased physical activity levels. For instance, if a person’s workout routine burns an additional 200 calories daily, these trials reported an overall increase of only about 60 kilocalories.
Interestingly, the results varied significantly. Those who maintained their caloric intake saw about half of the expected increase in total energy expenditure, while individuals who increased their physical activity while reducing their caloric intake often did not observe any significant changes. “They’re exercising 200 calories a day but seeing no tangible results,” Pontzer noted.
The type of exercise also plays a crucial role; compensation predominantly occurs during aerobic activities like running. In contrast, strength training appears to result in greater-than-expected energy expenditure. For example, individuals who burn an extra 200 calories from weightlifting tend to increase their total energy expenditure by approximately 250 calories per day.
However, Pontzer advises caution in interpreting these findings, as energy expenditure measurement during weight training can be challenging. He hypothesizes that weightlifters may deplete energy while repairing and building muscle tissue.
Initially, Pontzer believed the type of exercise might be negligible, but he now finds the insights exciting as they reveal unrecognized aspects of energy compensation. Despite the gains in muscle, weightlifting participants exhibited minimal fat loss, indicating it may not be a practical approach for weight loss.
So, why does an increase in aerobic exercise not lead to expected increases in energy expenditure? This analysis suggests that the body compensates by reallocating energy expenditures across various systems. For instance, the resting metabolic rate, particularly during sleep, can decrease with increased aerobic activity.
“Our body adjusts how different organ systems function post-exercise,” Pontzer says. “Understanding these changes could provide insights into how exercise benefits different individuals unequally.”
While Pontzer’s findings provide support for energy compensation, skeptics remain. Researcher Dylan Thompson from the University of Bath emphasizes the results of a meta-analysis suggesting aerobic exercise does not significantly affect resting metabolic rates.
Additionally, there might be critical research limitations, as pointed out by Javier Gonzalez, also at the University of Bath. For example, additional exercise might replace other daily activities like gardening, which could account for the lack of increased energy expenditure.
Nevertheless, Pontzer asserts that some studies effectively rule out this possibility, as compensation effects have also been documented in animal studies, corroborating human findings. Nonetheless, Thompson and Gonzalez argue for the necessity of more rigorous studies. “We require meticulously designed randomized controlled trials involving humans,” Thompson concludes.
Evidence suggests that Mars once hosted significant amounts of water. Past studies indicate that the majority of atmospheric water loss occurs during the Martian southern summer. During this season, warm and dusty conditions allow water vapor to ascend to high altitudes, where it escapes into space without condensing. A groundbreaking study has unveiled a previously unidentified pathway for water loss, observed for the first time in the Martian northern summer. This research highlights how a localized, short-lived sandstorm in Mars Year 37 (August 2023) caused a surge in water vapor.
Close-up color image of a small dust storm on Mars, captured by ESA’s Mars Express’ HRSC instrument in April 2018. Image credit: ESA / DLR / FU Berlin / CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO.
Dr. Adrian Brines, a researcher at the Andalusian Institute of Astronomy and the University of Tokyo, stated, “Our findings reveal the impact of this type of storm on Earth’s climate evolution and open new avenues for understanding how Mars has lost water over time.”
While dust storms have long been recognized as significant contributors to water escape on Mars, previous discussions primarily focused on large-scale dust events occurring on a planetary scale.
In this study, Dr. Brines and colleagues demonstrated that smaller, localized storms can significantly enhance the transport of water vapor to high altitudes, where it is lost to space more readily.
Prior research concentrated on the warm and dynamic summers of the Southern Hemisphere, as this is the primary period for water loss on Mars.
The recent study detected an unusual spike in water vapor in Mars’ middle atmosphere, attributed to a localized dust storm during the northern hemisphere summer of Martian year 37.
Diagram demonstrating the atmospheric response to localized sandstorms in the Northern Hemisphere during summer. High dust concentrations significantly enhance solar radiation absorption, promoting atmospheric warming, especially in the middle atmosphere. This increased circulation enhances the vertical transport of water vapor, facilitating its injection at high altitudes and increasing hydrogen efflux from the exobase. Image credit: Brines et al., doi: 10.1038/s43247-025-03157-5.
This surge in water vapor was unprecedented, reaching levels up to 10 times higher than normal—an occurrence not predicted by existing climate models or observed in previous Martian epochs.
Following this event, the amount of hydrogen in Mars’ exobase—where the atmosphere transitions into space—also rose significantly, increasing by 2.5 times compared to the previous year.
Understanding how much water Mars has lost over time hinges on measuring the hydrogen that escapes into space, as this element is produced when water decomposes in the atmosphere.
Dr. Shohei Aoki, a researcher at the University of Tokyo and Tohoku University, noted, “These results provide a crucial piece to the incomplete puzzle of how Mars has persistently lost water over billions of years, demonstrating that brief but intense episodes can significantly influence the evolution of Mars’ climate.”
Discover more about these findings in the featured study, published this week in Communication: Earth and Environment.
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A. Brines et al. 2026. Unseasonal water escape during summer in Mars’ northern hemisphere caused by localized strong sandstorms. Communication: Earth and Environment 7, 55; doi: 10.1038/s43247-025-03157-5
Ozempic is a well-known name, primarily approved for diabetes treatment in the UK and US, yet it is commonly prescribed ‘off-label’ for weight loss. This medication has essentially become synonymous with a groundbreaking new category of weight loss drugs.
Injectable medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Rybelsus, and Saxenda can facilitate significant weight loss, approaching 20% of a person’s body weight in certain individuals.
Now, the next generation of weight loss solutions has arrived, and they are available in pill form.
The debut of these tablets occurred in the United States, with Novo Nordisk (the producer of Ozempic) launching Wegovy tablets on January 5, 2026. Their quick rise in popularity resulted in over 18,000 new prescriptions issued in the first week alone.
But Wegovy won’t stand alone for long. Eli Lilly’s competing drug, orforglipron, is projected to gain FDA approval this spring, and several alternatives are in development.
(Currently, these tablets are not available in the UK; however, UK policies are anticipated to follow the FDA’s example.)
The mechanism of these tablets mirrors that of injectables. The active compounds, known as “incretins” (like Wegovy’s semaglutide and Mounjaro’s tirzepatide), deceive the body into feeling full by imitating natural satiety hormones.
As digestion slows down, you naturally consume less, leading to weight loss. Don’t let hunger hinder your journey to success.
Now available in pill form, this medication promises similar life-altering effects and protection against obesity-related illnesses, all while being more affordable than ever.
Is it too good to be true? Experts caution that while the pill presents notable risks, it also brings substantial benefits.
Read more:
Can Weight Loss Drugs Transform the Landscape of Treatment?
These tablets could signify a new chapter in the management of obesity, providing broader access to life-altering healthcare.
“Not everyone prefers injectable medications,” states Dr. Simon Cork, a senior lecturer in appetite and weight regulation at Anglia Ruskin University in the UK. “Injections can be uncomfortable for many patients, making oral administration a more appealing option.”
Besides comfort, switching from injections to pills could massively reduce monthly costs. Those using weight loss drugs today often spend hundreds of dollars each month on injections.
Weight loss pills can be stored at room temperature in standard pill blister packs, making them more accessible – Credit: Getty Images
Thanks to the absence of needles and refrigeration needs, these pills can be produced and distributed at lower costs, providing weight loss solutions to millions who previously faced exorbitant prices.
“Overall, these pills are expected to be significantly more affordable than current injection therapies,” says Cork.
This trend is already visible in the US, where Wegovy pens are priced at $349 (approximately £250) per month, whereas Wegovy tablets retail for $149 (around £110).
In the UK, nearly 95% of incretin users incur high private fees. According to Professor Giles Yeo from the University of Cambridge, the NHS often cannot prescribe these expensive medications to all patients who need them.
“Patients may need to maintain these drugs for extended periods, which exacerbates the financial barrier, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds most susceptible to obesity,” Cork noted. “I hope that these oral medications will democratize access.”
Addressing Long-Term Challenges
However, these drugs may not be the most effective options, even as their availability increases.
Incretins tend to offer lower efficacy in pill form. Injectable Wegovy has demonstrated a capacity to help users lose 15% of body weight after 68 weeks, while Wegovy tablets showed only 13.6% weight loss across 64 weeks.
The efficacy of pills may not match that of modern injected solutions. Retatortide, still in development, has shown results of 24% body weight reduction in just 48 weeks.
Administering these drugs through pills poses inherent challenges. Oral medications must traverse the stomach and liver before entering circulation, resulting in the manufacturer needing to increase the amount of active ingredient to achieve desired outcomes.
Consequently, weight loss results from pills may not be as rapid as from injections. Nevertheless, a significant complaint regarding injections—that discontinuing them often leads to weight regain—may see improvement.
A 2022 study revealed that participants who halted Wegovy injections regained up to two-thirds of their lost weight within one year.
The emergence of the pill could provide a solution. A recent study, the Eli Lilly ATTAIN-MAINTAIN Trial, showed that Orforglipron tablets helped participants stabilize their weight after stopping injectable therapy.
“Many might rely on these medications to maintain weight loss,” Yeo suggests.
Cork adds, “Injectables can be utilized for optimal weight loss, and pills can help maintain this weight affordably.”
Most incretins mimic the natural satiety hormone GLP-1, but new treatments are targeting multiple hormones for enhanced effectiveness – Credit: Getty Images
The Risks and Concerns of the Pill Revolution
While these drugs possess the potential to catalyze significant positive change, their widespread availability also raises risks for vulnerable populations.
“The major danger is these drugs entering the wrong hands,” warns Yeo. “Since there’s no weight limit to how these drugs might impact individuals, a 300-pound person aiming to lose 50 pounds could utilize it as well as a 16-year-old girl weighing 75 pounds.”
“Pills can easily be trafficked, making them accessible to anyone. It’s essential to establish strict regulations around their distribution,” he urges.
Cork shares concerns over side effects. Incretins can provoke various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Clinical trials found that three-quarters of participants experienced digestive issues.
Moreover, there are rare but serious risks such as pancreatitis, gallstones, and gastroparesis. Additionally, interactions with other medications, including contraceptives, could affect their efficacy.
“The risk of pancreatitis is low, around 1%,” Cork notes. “But with millions potentially using these drugs, this risk becomes concerning without appropriate oversight.”
Though these warnings are sobering, they remain speculative. The actual impact of these drugs is still uncertain.
“2026 is poised to be a crucial year in understanding the efficacy, prevalence, and applications of these medications,” Yeo concludes. “Time will tell how things unfold.”
The Chernobyl nuclear power plant has endured multiple attacks following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
AFP
A recent power outage at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine has disrupted the spent fuel cooling system, increasing the risk of overheating and the potential release of harmful radiation. Fortunately, the stored fuel is aged and expected to remain safe until power is restored.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Russian military actions have targeted multiple electrical substations in Ukraine, leading to the current power outage at Chernobyl. “The IAEA is closely monitoring these developments to ensure nuclear safety,” stated IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi in a recent update on X.
Spent nuclear fuel continues to emit radiation and generate heat for years after being removed from a reactor. Without proper cooling, the fuel can melt, resulting in dangerous radiation levels. Currently, Chernobyl’s old fuel is stored in large cooling ponds that are regularly replenished with cold water to maintain safe temperatures.
However, the IAEA reported that the site lacks a power supply, which halts cooling efforts, leading to increased water temperatures and evaporation rates.
“Once the fuel is out of the reactor, it remains hot due to the production of fission products and radiative materials. It’s essential to manage this heat effectively, or it may eventually lead to a meltdown,” explained Paul Cosgrove from Cambridge University. More information can be found on his profile here.
Fortunately, the risk associated with the stored fuel at Chernobyl is lower today compared to 2022 when similar power outages occurred, as the fuel has already cooled significantly over the years. New Scientist reported this decrease in risk.
“Power loss at nuclear facilities is concerning, but the perceived nuclear risks often far exceed the actual risks associated with comparable incidents,” noted Ian Farnan from Cambridge University. More details about his work can be found here.
The Chernobyl disaster involved a reactor explosion in 1986, with reactors 2, 1, and 3 being shut down in 1991, 1996, and 2000, respectively.
While details of the storage pool containing Chernobyl’s remaining fuel are classified, Cosgrove indicated that evaluations conducted in 2022 found minimal risk of overheating during power outages. “This fuel has been stored safely for over 20 years, leading to significant energy dissipation,” he emphasized.
Electricity delivery to Chernobyl, as well as much of Ukraine, has fluctuated since the commencement of the full-scale Russian invasion. Recently, heightened attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure by Russian forces have exacerbated the situation.
This power outage at Chernobyl represents yet another instance of Russian actions undermining nuclear safety, including the temporary occupation of Chernobyl, preventing necessary maintenance, the seizure of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and last February’s drone attack on the containment structures above the ruins of Chernobyl’s reactor 4.
University Centre for General Dermatology and Oncodermatology, Wrocław Medical University
A Polish man experienced a severe allergic reaction to the red ink used in his tattoo, resulting in hair loss, cessation of sweat production, and the development of vitiligo. This alarming case highlights potential adverse effects of certain modern tattoo inks on the immune system.
Tattooing is a time-honored practice that traditionally utilized black soot-based inks and manual techniques. Today, electric tattoo machines are employed to rapidly apply colorful synthetic inks across larger skin areas.
Many dyes found in colored tattoo inks were originally formulated for use in printer inks and automotive paints, not for human application. Reports of allergic reactions to colorful tattoo inks have surged in recent years, particularly among individuals with existing immune issues, such as eczema, asthma, and celiac disease. According to research, around 6% of people report allergic reactions that persist for more than four months, particularly with red ink.
The Polish man’s symptoms began four months post-tattoo application on his forearm. Initially, itched intensely, followed by the emergence of a widespread red rash. Over time, he developed hair loss, yellowing nails, swollen lymph nodes, and an inability to sweat. After two years, he also noticed large patches of vitiligo.
Despite consultations with several specialists, including dermatologists and allergists, the underlying issue remained undiagnosed. It wasn’t until the red ink decorations of his tattoo became visibly inflamed that suspicion arose. A biopsy of a swollen lymph node revealed traces of red ink had migrated from the tattoo site.
Due to limited treatment options, the man underwent eight surgeries to eliminate the problematic red ink and apply skin grafts. Post-treatment, while his hair has regrown and vitiligo has stabilized, he still suffers from permanent dysfunction of his sweat glands, presenting a risk of heat exhaustion and necessitating his resignation from military service, as he must frequently spray himself with water.
Despite attempts, dermatologists at Wrocław Medical University could not obtain a sample of the red ink for analysis. However, past studies have identified synthetic organic dyes, particularly azo dyes, as agents responsible for allergic reactions in red tattoos.
The potential health risks associated with tattoo ink are linked to its chronic activation of the immune system. Most tattoo ink remains on the skin, but some can migrate to lymph nodes. Here, immune cells known as macrophages attempt to eliminate the ink but often fail due to its size. This failure leads to a cycle of immune activation, as macrophages transfer the ink to others, perpetuating the immune response. Dr. Sine Clemmensen of the University of Southern Denmark elaborates on this issue.
The Polish man also had Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition that may have heightened his sensitivity, resulting in the immune system mistakenly attacking his skin.
Emerging research suggests that even individuals without pre-existing immune conditions might face long-term risks related to tattoos. Clemmensen’s findings indicate that having any tattoo color could triple the risk of developing lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system.
In January 2022, following another case similar to that of the Polish man, the European Union initiated measures to enhance tattoo safety by restricting chemicals commonly found in tattoo inks with azo dyes. However, legislation in other regions is still pending.
Many individuals set New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, particularly following the holiday festivities. Traditionally, this involved adopting a new diet, waking up early for workouts, and other habits that can be challenging to sustain. Consequently, it’s no surprise that numerous people abandon their goals within weeks.
Today, however, an alternative has emerged: weight loss medications. Instead of solely depending on lifestyle changes, individuals can benefit from regular doses of GLP-1 agonists or other therapeutic tablets (as highlighted on page 6). Health professionals still recommend integrating these medications with consistent physical activity for optimal results.
GLP-1 drugs are not only transforming our cyclical health regimens. Restaurants are now crafting menus specifically for Ozempic diners, featuring smaller portion sizes for customers who experience reduced appetite. Additionally, supermarkets have reported declines in sales due to decreased demand from those using these medications. Airlines are also considering the implications, as decreased average passenger weight could lower fuel expenses.
While it’s unclear how much these trends can be attributed to GLP-1 drugs—which are currently used by a minority—and the extent of their impact on brands reacting to this health trend, the statistics surrounding obesity are alarming. Approximately 1 billion individuals globally are affected by obesity, and the adoption of these medications is expected to rise. According to World Health Organization estimates, fewer than 10 percent of people will utilize GLP-1 drugs by 2030, yet this still represents a substantial demographic.
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Restaurants are designing menus featuring reduced portions for Ozempic diners. “
New advancements in medication are in development (refer to page 7), and the potential impacts could be even more significant. Beyond weight reduction, GLP-1 agonists have shown promise in treating various conditions, from addiction to eye diseases like cataracts.
While there remain numerous uncertainties regarding the long-term consequences, the results of discontinuation, and enhancing accessibility, the future appears bright. As we advance further into the 21st century, weight loss drugs are poised to play a crucial role in shaping health and wellness trends.
If you’ve struggled with weight loss, you may have attributed it to your metabolism. This elusive concept seems to make losing weight effortless for some, while for others, it feels like an uphill battle.
However, this perception misrepresents how the body truly functions, neglecting the critical elements of fat loss.
Metabolism encompasses more than just “the number of calories burned.” It’s a complex network of chemical reactions occurring in your cells and tissues that power everything you do.
Many individuals simplify it to a single statistic: calories burned at a specific moment.
Here, “metabolic rate” becomes relevant. It’s the standard metric for gauging how quickly your metabolism operates. Essentially, it’s the energy expended at rest, representing the minimal energy required to keep bodily functions active.
A common belief is that lean individuals possess a “fast” metabolism, burning more calories effortlessly. In fact, larger bodies often exhibit a “faster” metabolism.
The metabolic rate largely hinges on body size—greater tissue requires more energy for maintenance.
However, weight alone is a rudimentary gauge. Two individuals may weigh the same, but differences in fat-to-muscle ratios can significantly influence their metabolic rates.
Lean mass, particularly organs, plays a pivotal role in energy expenditure. The liver and brain alone contribute about half of the body’s resting energy requirements, with the kidneys accounting for nearly 20 percent.
Though skeletal muscle has a lower metabolic activity than organs (approximately 20 times less active per gram), its substantial mass contributes significantly to resting energy expenditure.
Since organ masses are consistent among individuals of similar size, muscle and fat primarily dictate metabolic variations.
This distinction also elucidates the differences between men and women. Men generally have a higher muscle mass and lower fat percentage, leading to a greater metabolic rate at the same weight.
Once body composition and gender are factored, metabolic rates prove to be surprisingly predictable, challenging the notion that some individuals have substantially “faster” metabolisms than others.
Deceleration Myth
Age-related hormonal changes often promote fat gain – Photo credit: Getty
There’s a common belief that metabolic rates decline with age. However, this perception may not hold, particularly for middle-aged individuals.
Taking body composition into account, metabolic rates typically remain stable until about age 65. The earlier drop is more related to shifts in muscle and fat than a mysterious “aging metabolism.”
Changes in hormonal balance, particularly during menopause, can impact metabolism.
Hormonal changes often promote fat gain while contributing to muscle loss, particularly around the abdomen, both of which can lower metabolic rates.
Additionally, reduced estrogen levels can affect thermogenesis, potentially slowing metabolism and leading to hot flashes.
After age 65, energy expenditure tends to diminish, not because of metabolic “aging,” but due to broader physical changes.
Muscle mass typically declines faster, lessening both muscle and organ metabolic activity, resulting in lower calorie burning.
The good news? Staying active, eating healthily, and preserving muscle mass can help mitigate muscle loss.
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Built-in Balance Adjustment Function
If metabolism is mostly predictable, can it be entirely fixed? Not quite. Depending on circumstances, your body can gradually adjust its calorie burn.
For instance, someone who is overweight naturally burns more calories due to increased tissue maintenance. Research suggests their bodies might slightly ramp up calorie burning to eliminate excess weight.
Conversely, underweight individuals may consume fewer calories than anticipated because their metabolic rates decrease further, becoming very conservative with energy usage.
How does this occur? Some studies propose that the body can intentionally waste energy by generating heat, a process known as adaptive (or conditional) thermogenesis.
This process involves specialized fat cells called brown fat and certain proteins in muscles and other tissues, which can “leak” more (or fewer) calories as heat instead of storing them.
This heat dissipation is subtle—not felt as sweat or fever—but is a behind-the-scenes adjustment that fine-tunes energy balance.
Brown fat, or adipose tissue, burns energy to regulate body temperature – Photo credit: Getty
Adaptive thermogenesis does not mean being confined to a fixed body weight. This explains why dieting can feel like swimming against the tide. When calorie intake is cut, the body often retaliates by slowing metabolism, making it harder to sustain progress.
This leads to a pressing question: Can you truly change your metabolism, and if so, what methods are effective?
There Is No Magic Menu
You may have encountered claims that certain foods, like caffeine, polyphenols from spicy foods, or chili pepper extract, “boost” metabolism and increase calorie burn through thermogenesis.
However, the actual calorie increases from these ingredients are minimal, detectable only for short periods—lasting mere minutes to hours.
Another suggestion is to increase protein intake to speed up metabolism.
The premise is that digesting and absorbing protein requires more energy than digesting carbohydrates and fats, potentially resulting in fewer overall calories gained. However, this difference in calorie burn is often negligible.
While increased protein can help maintain and build muscle—supporting a higher metabolic rate—muscle growth is not solely reliant on protein.
Muscle repair and growth are stimulated primarily through exercise, especially resistance training.
In fact, exercise and physical activity are key to enhancing caloric usage, increasing your metabolism.
Moreover, exercise generates additional metabolic benefits beyond just the calories burned during the activity. Post-exercise, metabolism recovers at an accelerated rate as muscles adapt to the workout’s demands.
This phenomenon is known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), commonly recognized as the “afterburn” effect.
This temporary spike in fuel and calorie usage can last for several hours, even up to 48 hours, particularly after workouts focused on muscle repair and growth.
While it may not be the shortcut many seek, when targeting metabolism and fat loss, exercise—particularly strength-building workouts—remains a far more effective strategy.
Surge in demand for drugs like Wegovy, Victoza, and Ozempic leads to shortages
Michael Silk/Alamy
The blockbuster weight loss drug semaglutide, along with competitors, offers potential solutions to the global obesity crisis. However, access remains limited for many who could greatly benefit from these innovations, though changes are on the horizon.
Historically, weight loss drugs have been scarce; yet, by the end of 2024, manufacturers are expected to meet the skyrocketing demand. Nevertheless, treatments like semaglutide (marketed as Wegovy or Ozempic) continue to carry hefty price tags, often reaching thousands of dollars annually.
This pricing structures keeps these essential medications out of reach for the over 1 billion individuals affected by obesity globally. In the U.S., a mere 3 percent of the population utilizes weight-loss medications, with the numbers dipping below 1 percent in other countries, according to Morgan Stanley.
Looking ahead, 2026 promises significant developments, including the approval of orforglipron in multiple countries. This new medication mimics the GLP-1 hormone, known for its appetite-reducing properties. Unlike semaglutide, orforglipron, as a small molecule, offers tablet-based administration.
“Tablets are inexpensive to produce, simple to store, and easy to distribute,” explains Dr. Laura Heisler from the University of Aberdeen, UK. “In essence, the medication can reach a broader audience in need.”
In contrast, semaglutide is a larger molecule and a type of protein. Polymer drugs like these are generally challenging and costly to produce. They often require injections, complicating their supply and driving up costs. This has been a significant barrier to fulfilling the demand for GLP-1 drugs.
It’s important to note that there is a semaglutide version in pill form, Rybelsus, approved for type 2 diabetes. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, has also sought approval for a weight loss variant.
However, Rybelsus isn’t just any medication; it includes semaglutide alongside sulcaprosate sodium, which neutralizes stomach acid to facilitate absorption into the bloodstream. To maximize effectiveness, it must be taken at least 8 hours post-meal, with no food or drink for 30 minutes.
This complexity is part of the reason orforglipron has a lower production cost compared to semaglutide—it can be taken without the stringent requirements of medications like Rybelsus.
Furthermore, the introduction of orforglipron will foster competition among pharmaceutical companies. While Lilly, the producer of Orforglipron, has yet to disclose pricing, it has been shown to be less costly than other GLP-1 alternatives.
The sole drawback is that orforglipron appears less effective; those on the highest doses typically lose about 10% of body weight over 72 weeks, compared to 14% with semaglutide. Further research is needed to validate these findings.
Another critical development is the anticipated expiration of semaglutide patents in nations such as China, India, Brazil, Canada, and Turkey—home to a significant population. This could pave the way for generic versions to enter the market.
Although generics must meet the same standards as their branded counterparts, they often come at a fraction of the cost. “Once a drug loses patent protection, generic competition usually leads to price reductions of up to 90%,” states Jeremy Durant of Medicines UK, the association for generic drug manufacturers.
This shift may expand access to these crucial treatments. That said, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently advised that patients should also receive counseling about behavioral modifications and lifestyle changes to maximize the efficacy of medications. “Drugs alone won’t address the global obesity crisis,” says Francesca Ceretti of WHO.
Achieving a Healthy Weight: A Future of Possibilities
Merch Hub/Shutterstock
Recent advancements in obesity treatments have introduced highly effective medications, with the prospect of even more potent experimental treatments set for testing in 2026.
“We are witnessing an ambitious new phase in obesity treatment that promises improved health outcomes for numerous patients,” states Laura Heisler from the University of Aberdeen, UK. “Obesity is linked to severe health complications, including cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. A modest 5% reduction in body weight can significantly decrease these health risks.”
The first major weight loss drug, semaglutide, was initially approved as a diabetes treatment in 2017 under the name Ozempic. In 2021, it received approval for weight management as Wegovy.
Semaglutide functions by imitating the natural hormone GLP-1, which binds to brain and pancreatic receptors, helping to curb appetite and slow gastric emptying. Alongside its weight loss benefits, semaglutide has demonstrated positive cardiovascular effects and potential in managing conditions like substance addiction. However, common side effects like nausea can lead to discontinuation of the drug.
In 2023, Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro for diabetes, secured approval for weight loss under the name Zepbound. Enhancing semaglutide’s effectiveness, Tirzepatide operates by mimicking both GLP-1 and another hormone, GIP, which is involved in energy management. Like semaglutide, it has comparable side effects.
In clinical trials, semaglutide resulted in an average weight reduction of 14% over 72 weeks, while participants using tirzepatide achieved a 20% reduction. Notably, regaining lost weight is common once the medication is stopped.
Looking ahead, more dual-action and even triple-action medications are in development. A promising candidate for 2024 approval is Kaglisema, which merges semaglutide with Caglilintide, a drug that stimulates fullness through amylin mimicry.
In a trial with over 3,400 adults, those taking Kaglisema achieved a weight loss of 20% after 68 weeks, outperforming both semaglutide (15%) and Caglilintide alone (12%), indicating strong potential.
Additionally, a drug named amicretin is undergoing development. Similar to CagliSema, it mimics both GLP-1 and amylin, but uses a single molecule that binds to both receptor types.
In preliminary trials involving 125 participants, amicretin users experienced an average weight loss of 24% after 36 weeks, suggesting superior effectiveness compared to tirzepatide, although final-stage trials won’t commence until 2026.
Moreover, the “triple G” drug letartortide activates three hormones to facilitate fat release: GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon. In a study of 338 individuals, those on the highest dose experienced an average weight loss of 24% after 48 weeks. Results from late-stage trials will be crucial for assessing letartortide’s approval timeline, expected in late 2026 or beyond.
It’s important to note that weight loss results from various clinical studies aren’t directly comparable due to differences in participant criteria, study durations, and dosages. Moreover, average results can mask significant variability in individual responses to GLP-1 drugs; while some experience negligible effects, others see remarkable weight loss.
As many as 100 new weight-loss drugs are currently in development for 2026 and beyond as companies strive to capture a share of the lucrative market. These innovations often focus on diverse combinations of existing targets, such as GLP-1, GIP, glucagon, and amylin receptors, or explore new mechanisms entirely.
Research is also addressing adverse effects, such as the evidence indicating some weight loss from GLP-1 drugs may come from muscle rather than fat. For instance, a recent trial earlier this year combined semaglutide with bimagrumab, a muscle growth inhibitor, seeking to counterbalance these effects.
“The prospect of emergent, highly effective drugs with fewer side effects is indeed exciting,” says Heisler.
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The flow of melted snow creates channels through a glacier cave at the Morteratsch Glacier in Switzerland.
Lander Van Tricht
Currently, approximately 1,000 glaciers are disappearing each year, and if nations fulfill their carbon emission reduction goals, this could escalate to 3,000 glaciers lost annually by 2040.
Over the past two decades, at least 4,000 glaciers have melted. Lander Van Tricht and researchers at ETH Zurich in Switzerland utilized climate models to forecast the fate of the globe’s 211,000 glaciers in the coming century under various global warming scenarios.
If current climate targets remain unchanged, the planet is predicted to warm by 2.7 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels this century. This projection implies that 79% of the world’s glaciers will vanish by 2100. Conversely, if humanity manages to limit climate change to 2 degrees Celsius, 63% of glaciers will disappear.
“While we are destined to lose many glaciers, we still have the potential to protect a significant number,” observes David Rounce, who conducted research at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
If countries fail to meet their emissions targets and global warming escalates to 4°C, a staggering 91% of glaciers will be lost.
The forecast for glacier melting is predicted to accelerate sea level rise this century by 25 centimeters. Additionally, it will diminish the summer snowmelt water supply that many regions depend on for irrigation. Approximately two billion individuals live in watersheds nourished by mountain snow and ice, with many residing near rivers originating from Himalayan glaciers.
Moreover, melting ice poses a higher risk of flooding caused by sudden water releases from glacial lakes. In a 2023 incident in India, flooding resulted in the deaths of 55 individuals.
Previous studies have indicated that even if warming is restricted to the Paris Agreement’s most ambitious goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius, half of all glaciers will still melt this century. The recent research suggests that up to 55% may be lost at this level of warming.
The study also outlines the annual glacier loss rate by region. This rate is expected to peak around the mid-century and then decline as smaller glaciers disappear, leaving behind larger ones, particularly in the North and South Poles.
“Large ice takes time to melt, so they will take longer to disappear,” Van Tricht explains.
According to current climate goals, western Canada and the continental United States are likely to lose nearly all their glaciers by 2100. This is a significant setback for tourism, as Montana’s Glacier National Park is expected to lose the majority of its glaciers, although some may endure as small glaciers or ice remnants, based on future studies from the U.S. Geological Survey.
Similarly, the Alps are projected to be largely devoid of glaciers. Local communities are already holding glacier funerals, chronicling the stories of global glacier losses at a dedicated website. In 2019, around 250 individuals, including professors from ETH Zurich involved in this research, trekked to the remnants of the Pizol glacier.
They gathered not only to bid farewell but also to convey to the public that “we are connected to the glacier,” stated Matthias Hass. “When they are gone, it will be a significant loss for us.”
Maintaining good oral hygiene may be especially important during pregnancy
Chondros Eva Catalin/Getty Images
A popular saying suggests that “if you give birth to a child, your teeth will fall out.” While pregnancy is known to elevate the risk of dental issues, the underlying reasons remain somewhat unclear. Recent studies indicate that the oral microbiome alters during pregnancy, becoming less diverse and potentially more susceptible to inflammation.
Disruption of the oral microbiome, which comprises over 700 bacterial species, can lead to dental issues regardless of pregnancy status. However, Yoram Luzon and his team from Bar-Ilan University in Israel aimed to explore whether this typically stable ecosystem shifts during pregnancy. They collected saliva samples from 346 Israeli women across all three trimesters: 11-14 weeks, 24-28 weeks, and 32-38 weeks.
Their investigation revealed a decrease in species diversity in saliva samples starting from the transition between the first and second trimesters, continuing to decline throughout the pregnancy. A notable characteristic was the reduction in the number of species, with Akkermansia muciniphila, often hailed as a beneficial bacterium, declining alongside an increase in pro-inflammatory bacteria like Gammaproteobacteria and Synergystobacteria.
“While the oral microbiome is generally stable, we have noted a gradual decrease in its diversity over the years,” Louzoun observes. “Pregnancy accelerates this slow evolution, allowing changes that typically take years to manifest in just nine months.”
Despite being relatively minor overall, numerous factors may contribute to these changes. “Pregnancy involves a multitude of hormonal shifts and inflammation, leading to alterations in your microbiome,” explains Lindsay Edwards from King’s College London. “Dietary changes are frequent during pregnancy, and various factors such as nausea, medication cessation, and altered eating habits all play a role.”
The participants filled out questionnaires regarding their diets and health, allowing the researchers to identify similar yet distinct effects among different women. This included those who followed a gluten-free diet, took antibiotics, experienced stress, or were current or former smokers. “Many women quit smoking during pregnancy, but their prior smoking habits can impact their microbiome,” notes Dr. Luzon, emphasizing the potential long-term effects.
A parallel study found similar changes in the oral microbiomes of 154 pregnant women in Russia during their second and third trimesters.
Although pregnancy heightens the risk of dental complications, particularly in the early stages, Luzon does not definitively link oral microbiome changes to these issues. “We can’t conclude whether these microbiome alterations are beneficial or detrimental, but they are undoubtedly changing rapidly,” he states.
Conversely, Edwards suggests that shifts in microbial composition might be a contributing factor, highlighting that saliva tends to become more acidic during pregnancy, altering the types of bacteria present.
Valentina Biagioli and her colleagues from the University of Genoa in Italy assert that changes in the oral microbiome may correlate with variations in systemic hormone levels, as both systems potentially influence each other. “There exists a plausible biological link connecting the observed microbiome changes to prevalent dental issues during pregnancy, such as tooth loss,” she comments.
Disruption in the oral microbiome has been noted to relate to pregnancy complications. Consequently, establishing what constitutes an optimal microbiome during pregnancy could serve as a benchmark for monitoring pregnancy progression. “Once we establish the baseline oral microbiome of pregnancy, deviations can be detected,” Louzoun states.
Moreover, ongoing research aims to elucidate this microbiome’s role in the immune system, affecting both the health of the pregnant woman and her unborn child. “The microbiome is instrumental in shaping the immune system, fostering a reciprocal relationship,” Edwards explains.
In light of this, enhancing our understanding of how to sustain a healthy oral microbiome (e.g., via good dental hygiene and a balanced, nutritious diet) could yield significant benefits. “Microbiome changes may influence the inflammatory state of expectant parents and better prepare the child’s immune system, potentially affecting long-term health, allergies, infection susceptibility, and chronic inflammatory conditions,” cautions Edwards.
Insights into the impact of Y chromosome loss on lung cancer treatment outcomes may guide therapeutic choices.
Dakuku/Getty Images
Research indicates that men diagnosed with the predominant type of lung cancer are more likely to lose the Y chromosome in their cells. This phenomenon has both pros and cons; while it can prevent the immune system from combating tumors, it also enhances the effectiveness of standard anti-cancer therapies.
As men grow older, their cells frequently undergo mutations, leading to the loss of the Y chromosome. In immune cells, this loss is believed to correlate with heart disease and decreased life expectancy. Additionally, there is growing evidence that cancer cells that lose the Y chromosome may influence symptom progression, with bladder cancer being the most thoroughly researched case.
The loss of the Y chromosome is a binary occurrence—it either happens or it doesn’t. However, the health implications seem to depend significantly on the proportion of specific cells that lack the Y chromosome.
The recent study initiated by Dawn DeMeo and her team at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, investigated how Y-chromosome genes are expressed in a publicly available dataset of lung adenocarcinoma samples. Lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer, originates from the mucus-producing cells lining the airways. Enhanced understanding of the relationship between Y loss and various health issues has motivated researchers to delve deeper into gene expression studies, according to DeMeo.
The team discovered that cancer cells, in contrast to healthy lung and immune cells, often lack the Y chromosome. This occurrence is independent of whether the tissue donor is a smoker—despite smoking being linked to lung cancer and Y chromosome loss.
The loss of Y chromosomes appears to accumulate over time. “Certain groups demonstrate a higher rate of Y chromosome loss across a greater number of cells, and we observe significant Y chromosome loss in a large fraction of tumors,” stated John Quackenbush from Harvard University.
To comprehend the reasons behind this accumulation, researchers examined other genetic alterations in Y-negative cells. They found that the loss of a common set of antigens produced by cancer cells correlates with diminished expression levels. These antigens usually notify immune T cells that cancer cells are abnormal and should be targeted. The decreased expression allows Y-negative cancer cells to proliferate unchecked.
“This implies that as tumor cells lose their Y chromosome, they become increasingly adept at evading immune surveillance, suggesting a selection of tumor cells that escape immune detection,” Quackenbush explained. T cell counts were consistently lower in samples with Y loss compared to those retaining the Y chromosome.
Positive findings emerged when researchers analyzed data from 832 lung adenocarcinoma patients treated with the immune checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab, a medication designed to restore the body’s immune response against tumors by reversing T-cell suppression. The analysis confirmed that Y chromosome loss was linked to improved treatment outcomes.
“Patients experiencing LOY [loss of Y] are more responsive to checkpoint inhibitors,” noted Dan Theodorescu from the University of Arizona, who found similar results in bladder cancer, establishing validation against an entirely different dataset.
However, while loss of the Y chromosome is linked to shorter life expectancies for men compared to women, existing data suggests it does not impact survival in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Further research is needed to explore how the effects of such mutations influence survival across different cancer types, according to Theodorescu. As our understanding advances, he believes that loss of Y could eventually serve as a biomarker for clinical decision-making.
Pills may provide a more convenient method for taking weight-loss medications
H_Ko/Shutterstock
An oral pill could soon serve as an alternative to Wegovy and Ozempic injections after research demonstrated that it significantly reduces weight and enhances blood sugar levels in individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Created by the pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly, Orforglipron mimics the action of semaglutide, the key ingredient found in Wigovy and Ozempic, by imitating a hormone known as GLP-1.
In a previous trial, researchers discovered that individuals who were obese but did not have type 2 diabetes could lose an average of approximately 11 percent of their body weight over 72 weeks while using Orforglipron. Although this is less than the 15% typically observed with similar treatments, many find the convenience of taking a pill more appealing. With semaglutide injections, the preference for oral medication becomes clear, as noted by Deborah Horn from the University of Texas.
To assess its effectiveness for those with obesity and type 2 diabetes, Horn and her colleagues enlisted over 1,600 individuals from ten countries, including India, Australia, China, Germany, Brazil, and the United States.
Approximately 900 participants were assigned to receive varying daily doses of orforglipron—low, medium, or high—while the remainder received placebo pills alongside lifestyle guidance.
After 72 weeks, individuals in the high-dose group lost nearly 10 percent on average, with 67 percent of that group achieving over 5 percent weight loss. The middle and low-dose groups recorded around 7 percent and 5 percent reductions, respectively, while the placebo group had less than a 3 percent decrease.
This study reaffirms that Orforglipron results in less weight loss compared to injectable GLP-1 medications; however, it may still enhance health and quality of life. Stefan Trapp from University College London, who did not participate in the study, remarked, “Even a modest 5% weight loss generally leads to clear benefits, such as increased exercise capacity, lifestyle changes, and reduced risk of other illnesses.”
Moreover, participants receiving high doses experienced an average drop of nearly 2 percent in blood sugar levels, with approximately 75 percent reaching levels typically aimed for diabetics, Horn shared. Conversely, those on lower doses saw a mere 0.1% reduction, while the placebo group exhibited no significant change.
Roughly 10% of the individuals taking high and medium doses had to discontinue use due to side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea—nearly double the occurrence seen in the low and placebo groups. Nonetheless, most participants deemed the side effects manageable, according to Horn. “The side effects were standard for other GLP-1 injectable medications,” she explained.
Horn mentioned that Eli Lilly anticipates the FDA will approve the drug for obesity and type 2 diabetes by early next year. As a physician, she hopes for approval of all three doses to provide patients with options to optimize their health while minimizing side effects.
Orforglipron does not necessitate refrigeration or syringes, which may lower manufacturing, storage, and distribution costs compared to injectable GLP-1 drugs. This, along with the elimination of injection-related discomfort, could enhance access to GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, which are currently costly and hard to obtain in many low- and middle-income nations, Trapp noted.
I
When we imagine models, they often appear as glamorous individuals who command high fees for their work. However, New York’s Daniel Maleka, 27, and London’s Dee O, 62, reveal that the reality is often a challenging quest for visibility.
The fashion industry is also rapidly evolving. Since O began her modeling career in 1983, the internet and social media have dramatically altered its dynamics. Currently, she’s adapting to trends such as: AI models appearing in “VOGUE” and the effects of GLP-1 weight loss drugs.
O and Maleka recently convened to reflect on their careers across different eras.
What’s your story? D-O: I grew up in Birmingham, from a working-class Irish immigrant family. My boyfriend entered me in the “Face of 1983” contest without telling me. I was about 17 or 18 then. Out of the blue, Look Now magazine called, inviting me as a finalist in Birmingham. Though I didn’t win, the agency still wanted me to represent them, leading me to travel frequently from Birmingham and catch a bus from Victoria at 2 AM after a less than appetizing sandwich.
Composition: Christian Sinibaldi, The Guardian
Daniel Maleka: I was raised in New York by Guyanese-American parents and was inspired to model by watching America’s Next Top Model. Though my family urged me to focus on university first, I explored modeling a little during my teenage years. While studying public health at New York University and running track, a teammate who loved photography helped me take my first photos. As fashion week approached, we reached out to casting directors and designers via Instagram. I eventually signed with WeSpeak, a boutique agency founded by models.
How has your career evolved since then? D-O: At 29, I decided to step away from modeling for a regular job. I pursued education, but my daughter, now 27, inspired me to return to modeling, something I initially disliked. Five years later, I found my passion again and signed with Gray Agency, which offers a diverse range of models and continuing opportunities without the stress I once felt.
DM: After five years at WeSpeak, I felt I hadn’t reached my full potential, so I tried a more traditional agency for a year and a half. We clashed often, eventually parting ways. I found my way back to WeSpeak while scouting for a UK agent during a London show with a New York client. Many agencies don’t provide feedback, often leaving me to feel undervalued.
Danielle is wearing Christopher John Rogers’ Pre-Fall 2023 collection. Photo: Cesar Buitrago
Do: The situation is always murky! It’s challenging to navigate since I desire clarity, yet often, with competition being high, I wonder if I’m overlooked because there are countless others who resemble me.
Dee, how has modeling transformed since your initial days? Do: Back then, conversation was minimal. The agent handled all communications, often taking 20% commission. Models just needed to show up with looks. While there’s a surge of writers and stylists in the industry now, not all models fit the same mold. Leveraging platforms like social media is essential for job hunting today.
DM: I’ve cultivated a solid social media presence and experienced waves of viral moments during COVID-19. Much of my career has revolved around online networking and connections.
Does modeling affect how you perceive yourself? DM: Some shoots led me to question if others appreciated my looks. For a while, I struggled with my sense of beauty, which is quite a burden.
Do: It’s subtle but impactful. Prioritizing others’ needs and identity over our own can affect mental health significantly over time. When I began in the early 1980s, there was an evident class structure, making me feel like an outsider. There’s also the personal challenge of comparing oneself to other women.
Composition: Christian Sinibaldi, The Guardian
I think models are often seen and not heard, but does this lead to exploitation? Do: We witnessed predatory behaviors pre-MeToo in the ’80s. I was fortunate to have a strong voice, which made others wary of me. Yet, I recognized that social invitations might have led to more work, highlighting a power dynamic dominated by men, which made me feel expendable.
DM: I’ve always been progressive. At NYU, I collaborated with organizations on family planning and women’s rights. However, in that previous corporate environment, I often held back my opinions out of fear of agency rejection. Now, I advocate with the Model Alliance, which fights for model rights. The Fashion Worker Law passed in New York last year, enhancing protections. Despite this, I still see models being asked to sign contracts that exceed legal requirements, suggesting some continue to exploit the inexperience of newcomers.
Do: Absolutely, naivety, aspirations, and disillusionment.
DM: Joining the Model Alliance Worker Council comes with a warning: your agency could terminate you for being part of it. I had no idea such implications existed.
The Fashion Workers Act: What an impressive step forward! Is progress occurring elsewhere? Do: There’s still a dominance of typical models in runway shows, often standing at 6 feet tall and size 8 or 6. Occasionally, I do see designers like Ashish Gupta intentionally showcasing diverse models. His recent London Fashion Week show incorporated a troupe of dancers, a creative idea that excites me. It’s also gratifying to see growing awareness about ethical sourcing and environmental concerns in fashion, with greater salary attention for workers. I’m passionate about fashion and proudly represent vintage clothing.
JD Williams Dee model. Photo: JD Williams
DM: 2020 truly felt like a turning point in Black representation within modeling. After the Black Lives Matter protests, my bookings surged, creating a narrative of inclusivity. Now, however, it appears the trend is regressing, with fewer Black models in the spotlight. Additionally, I often find that stylists aren’t equipped to handle black hair, leading to detrimental outcomes, such as heat damage I experienced.
I’ve heard that models face pressure to remain thin. Have you experienced that? Do: I once knew a roommate who was an unhealthy size 12 in the UK (8 in the US). She lived on apples, battled rotting teeth, and suffered from bulimia, all in pursuit of agency approval for the desired height and size. Ultimately, she became sick and had to return home, a memory I’ll never forget.
DM: This issue has long affected model standards, and while I maintain a fit physique, I’ve gradually come to realize the pressures of being thinner. Initially, I was more muscular due to my athletics, but feedback like, “You need to change your dimensions,” during meetings hit me hard emotionally.
Do: Such standards have a profound impact on your mental state. Yet, we’re witnessing an emergence of diverse body shapes and sizes. Although it appears better than before, curvy models still face stereotypes, often expected to have hourglass figures.
With innovations like Botox and weight loss medications, have you noticed changes in the industry? DM: My peers who model plus sizes have expressed that these developments affect their runway bookings.
Do: On one job, they even taped my face to alter my skin. If my face isn’t good enough, why book someone older? These thoughts persist. I find myself torn about it; I have never undergone Botox or surgery, yet contemplate it. Models of my age at that shoot often shared similar feelings, emphasizing the contradictions we navigate.
Are you concerned about your images being used for deepfakes or AI training? DM: The Model Alliance included a clause in their legislation requiring written consent from models for such uses. There’s apprehension about the risk of my image being misused, especially with the vulnerability posed by sharing on platforms like Instagram.
Would you recommend modeling as a career? DM: Yes, it offers fulfillment and is often playful and fun, allowing you to embrace your inner child. However, if I had children, I’d prefer they start their modeling journey later, not at 15 or 16.
Do: I mirrored my parents’ approach with my daughter, insisting she finish college first. Nevertheless, her determination prevailed. I’m grateful for her resolve, especially as we now collaborate in the industry.
Photo: Christian Sinibaldi/Guardian
DM: I urge pursuing interests outside of modeling. After gaining recognition through TikTok, I perceived it as my sole identity for a while, which left me feeling disoriented.
Do: Traveling worldwide has been invaluable; even those experiences justify the journey. However, it’s critical to remember that success can vanish overnight.
Increasing evidence suggests that GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy offer benefits beyond treating obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Shelby Knowles/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Research indicates that the weight-loss medication Wegovy can lower the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular conditions, even in individuals who may not experience significant weight loss or those who aren’t severely obese.
Earlier findings from the SELECT trial hinted that Wegovy, a GLP-1 weight-loss drug, could have these heart health benefits, but it remained unclear if they were solely due to weight reduction. Studies involving pigs suggested a direct protective effect on the heart, now validated in humans.
“The important takeaway is that the cardiovascular advantages of these drugs occur independently of weight loss. This repositions them as drugs that modify diseases rather than merely aiding weight loss,” explains John Deanfield from University College London.
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 treatment, as well as Ozempic, which is designed for managing type 2 diabetes. While these treatments are approved for weight management and diabetes, they have shown promise in various other conditions, including dementia and alcoholism.
The SELECT trial assessed semaglutide against placebo regarding cardiovascular risks in 17,604 participants aged 45 and older who were overweight or obese. None were diabetic, yet all had some heart disease. In November 2023, Deanfield et al. announced that semaglutide reduced the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other severe cardiac events by 20%.
Researchers are analyzing data to determine if these effects are solely due to weight loss, examining various body mass index (BMI) and weight loss ranges. They discovered that individuals starting with a BMI of 27—categorized as mildly obese—showed improved heart disease risk after using semaglutide, as did the severely obese with a BMI of 44.
Interestingly, the degree of weight lost seemed to have minimal impact on cardiovascular improvements, whether during the initial 20 weeks or throughout the nearly two-year study.
However, abdominal fat appears to play a significant role. Researchers noted that a slimmer waist at the study’s onset correlated with reduced heart disease risk, regardless of whether participants received semaglutide or a placebo. Moreover, after years on semaglutide, each 5-centimeter reduction in waist size was linked to a 9% decrease in cardiovascular event risk. The research team found that waistline reduction contributed to nearly one-third of the drug’s heart-protective effects, while the reasons for the other benefits remain unclear.
These results reinforce semaglutide’s potential beyond just weight management, as individuals in the placebo group even experienced a slight rise in heart disease risk while losing weight; this may be reflective of an underlying health issue, Deanfield notes.
Further studies are required to unpack how semaglutide and potentially other GLP-1 medications exert these benefits. Professor Deanfield speculates that enhancements in blood vessel function and blood pressure could be at play, alongside possible anti-inflammatory effects.
“Inflammation is a crucial mechanism influencing various diseases we want to avoid,” he mentions. “This appears to be a shared pathway targeted by these drugs.”
This advantage might also be linked to how semaglutide interacts with fat surrounding the heart, referred to as epicardial adipose tissue. Gianluca Iacobellis from the University of Miami highlights, “Semaglutide binds to epicardial adipose tissue receptors to enhance tissue health, consequently improving heart function and lowering cardiovascular event risks.”
“The query remains: What criteria should we establish to identify individuals most likely to benefit from these drugs?” questions Stefano Masi from the University of Pisa, Italy. “This is an ongoing challenge.”
Testing reveals that a higher weekly dosage of Wegovy is linked to an increased risk of side effects.
Prior research indicates that individuals receiving the standard weekly doses of Wegovy, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, can lose up to 15% of their body weight over a year when combined with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. This medication mimics the action of GLP-1, a hormone akin to glucagon, which aids in numerous ways such as delaying stomach emptying and signaling the brain to suppress appetite.
Produced by the pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, Wegovy is approved for use among individuals with obesity or those who are overweight and possess at least one weight-related condition like type 2 diabetes. “However, some patients may not experience the desired level of weight loss or may seek more than the average 10-15% reduction,” says Lora Heisler, who was not part of the research team from the University of Aberdeen in the UK.
To explore the potential benefits of increased dosage, Shawn Wharton and colleagues, including scientists from the University of Toronto and Novo Nordisk, studied over 1,000 obese adults across 11 countries, including the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe.
Participants, all without diabetes, were randomly assigned to receive either a high dosage of 7.2 milligrams or the standard 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide, alongside a placebo injection mimicking Wegovy. Doses of semaglutide were gradually elevated over several weeks, and all participants were encouraged to maintain a caloric deficit of 500 calories per day and engage in physical activity for 150 minutes weekly.
After one year, those receiving the standard dosage lost an average of 16% of their body weight, while the high-dose group achieved about 19% weight loss. Conversely, the placebo group lost approximately 44% of their body weight.
One-third of participants in the standard dosage category experienced over 20% weight loss, compared to almost half in the high-dose group. Only 3% in the placebo group reached this threshold, indicating that higher dosages can significantly enhance weight loss outcomes, according to Heisler.
At the onset of the study, more than one-third of participants in each group had prediabetes, marked by elevated blood sugar levels without qualifying for type 2 diabetes. By the study’s conclusion, diabetes cases in the high-dose group decreased by 83%, while cases within the standard-dose group fell by 74%. “This is highly encouraging, as the main objective of weight loss is to enhance overall health,” Heisler remarks.
Nevertheless, there are noteworthy drawbacks. Bowel-related side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, were reported by 61% in the standard-dose group, while 71% in the high-dose category experienced similar issues. In comparison, 40% of those taking the placebo also faced these symptoms, which might not be directly related to the treatment, according to Heisler.
Moreover, over 20% of the high-dose group reported unpleasant skin sensations known as dysesthesia. As a result, four participants discontinued their treatment. By contrast, only 6% of the standard-dose recipients and just one in the placebo group reported this side effect, with no one ceasing treatment.
These findings indicate that the advantages of higher dosages may outweigh the associated risks for certain individuals, according to Heisler. “For those requiring substantial weight loss who don’t experience many side effects, the higher dose may facilitate their goals,” she states. However, it may not be appropriate for individuals achieving sufficient weight loss on standard doses or those enduring severe side effects. She emphasizes the need for additional trials to validate these results before clinical application.
In a separate trial, Wharton and his team suggest that higher dosages might yield greater weight loss and enhanced blood glucose levels in individuals with both obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, the results were not statistically significant, indicating a need for further investigation, says Simon Cork from Anglia Ruskin University in the UK.
Many individuals have attempted to trim their waistlines through calorie counting and frequent gym visits, yet often with little success. So, what’s the underlying issue?
According to Dr. Andrew Jenkinson, a consultant in bariatric surgery at University College London Hospital and author of Why We Eat (Too Much) and How to Eat (and Still Lose Weight), losing weight is less about the quantity of food consumed or the amount of exercise than previously thought.
He suggests that rather than obsessing over calorie counts and relentless gym sessions, a more practical approach to weight loss could be achieved by consuming foods that effectively regulate levels of the hormone leptin.
How does leptin function? What foods should fill your plate? Is there a straightforward way to combat cravings? Dr. Jenkinson addressed these topics in detail during our recent discussion.
BBC Science Focus: What is the global obesity crisis?
AJ: The Western world faces significant issues that are straining healthcare systems. In the U.S., about one-third of the population is considered morbidly obese, impacting their health drastically.
In Europe, the rate is around one-quarter. Many of these individuals face heightened risks of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, joint problems, and certain cancers.
For the first time in history, life expectancy is declining due to obesity. New treatments, such as injections, are available, but they come at a hefty price.
Millions rely on them, and thus, obesity has become a major economic and health concern that requires urgent attention.
Obesity does not stem solely from the abundance of appealing, high-calorie food. These foods may act similarly to drugs, disrupting normal weight regulation mechanisms.
Wild animal populations face similar biological pathways, yet there’s no evidence that lions become inactive due to an oversupply of antelope.
Is the issue rooted in our hormones?
Yes. Leptin, often termed the ‘satiety hormone,’ is crucial in regulating the weight of wildlife and should ideally function in the same way for humans.
Leptin levels send signals to the brain’s weight control center, located in the hypothalamus. This hormone essentially dictates body weight: when leptin is detected, appetite diminishes and metabolism increases.
Leptin is produced by fat cells, meaning that higher leptin levels should correlate with reduced appetite and increased metabolism.
However, some food types can obstruct leptin signaling. While it’s well-known that sugar, refined carbohydrates, and processed foods contribute to obesity, the root cause isn’t merely their calorie content; it’s how they elevate insulin levels, which in turn inhibits leptin.
When leptin signaling fails, the brain loses track of whether we are overweight or underweight. You might look visibly overweight, but your brain might mistakenly signal that you need to eat more.
It’s akin to driving a vehicle and suddenly noticing the fuel gauge is empty. You panic and refuel, but the tank was never really empty to begin with—the gauge itself was faulty. Similarly, when leptin is blocked, your body undergoes a comparable malfunction.
What significance do calories hold for weight loss?
Calories are essential for survival, acting as energy units stored within plants. Plants predominantly store carbohydrates and energy within their cellular structures.
We utilize this energy for various bodily functions like heat generation, heartbeat, and movement. Interestingly, approximately 70% of the energy we consume is expended at rest, termed basal metabolism, which encompasses immune functions, maintaining body temperature, heart rate, and more.
There’s a common misconception among those who focus exclusively on calorie counts: the body can easily eliminate excess calories. For instance, you could adjust basal metabolism to burn an additional 600-700 calories daily through activity akin to enjoying a lavish three-course meal or engaging in a 10k run.
If you adopt a low-calorie diet, your body can also adapt to this lower intake, ultimately halting weight loss within weeks.
Moreover, while many individuals may overconsume, our bodies respond by increasing basal metabolism, leading to greater energy expenditure. This is a significant factor in the Western epidemic of hypertension, as our bodies heighten blood pressure to manage energy use.
Why do some people find it harder to lose weight than others?
This variation relates to the concept of a weight setpoint or weight anchor. Imagine it as an anchor that keeps a ship tethered to one location—similarly, your weight anchor dictates your body’s weight range.
Your weight anchor could be set within the “overweight” or “obese” zone. Even if you work hard at the gym or adhere to a low-calorie diet, your brain’s weight control center may pull you back to your setpoint.
This anchor is influenced by several factors, many of which you can change, but one is immutable: your genetics.
We all know individuals who remain naturally slim and can indulge in their favorite treats without gaining weight. However, about 25% to 33% of the population carries genes that predispose them to weight gain when exposed to Western dietary habits.
This genetic predisposition is heightened through easy access to sugar, refined carbohydrates, processed foods, fructose, vegetable oils, and more. Unfortunately, much of this unhealthy food is readily available in supermarkets, often overshadowing the fresh produce aisles.
This misunderstanding is prevalent among practitioners who advocate for calorie counting; it overlooks the fundamental principle that the type of food we consume acts on our bodies as a form of medicine.
Read more:
So, what should we be eating?
Remember, it’s about lifestyle changes rather than temporary dieting. Dieting implies short-term calorie restriction. However, if you comprehend how different foods impact your body like medications, you will naturally shed pounds. Avoid sugar, refined carbohydrates, and toxic vegetable oils that adversely affect insulin levels.
Opt for homemade meals, and without much struggle, your weight setpoints will begin to decrease. You may find you lose considerably more weight than through conventional exercise efforts. This doesn’t have to be a struggle or cause frustration.
For instance, you could effortlessly replace unhealthy snacks eaten while watching television with a plate of veggies sprinkled with a bit of salt. It is all about recognizing and transforming unhealthy habits into healthier alternatives.
Initially, giving up sugar or chocolate may trigger cravings. However, these can be managed through a technique called “Crave Surfing,” which involves acknowledging the craving without disregarding it. Focus on it, and you will find that these cravings will ebb and flow, becoming less intense over time.
What role should exercise play in weight loss?
If you can dedicate time to the gym for about an hour and a half, engaging in vigorous activities, you could potentially burn 1000 calories daily. Over six days a week, this can significantly impact your weight.
However, for most, this level of control is unattainable unless you are an athlete. Recommendations for 30 minutes of exercise, 3-4 times a week, have minimal effect on weight loss—you may only shed around 2 kilograms annually.
Just like limiting calories, exercise can enhance metabolism efficiency, causing the body to become more adept at conserving energy.
For example, if you engage in a 30-minute workout and burn about 400 calories, it may leave you feeling hungrier. Unless you maintain exceptional willpower, you are likely to consume those 400 calories back. Instead of burning these calories, your metabolism functions to regulate them.
The way to counter this effect involves a combination of calorie restriction and physical activity for optimal results. Our metabolism cannot typically adjust by more than 600 or 700 kilocalories a day. Hence, if you successfully reduce your intake beyond 1000 calories, weight loss is likely to follow—but it is a challenging task that can lead to fatigue and hunger.
This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
About our expert, Dr. Andrew Jenkinson
Andrew is a consultant specializing in obesity (weight loss) and general surgical procedures at University College London Hospital.
He is also the author of Why We Eat (Too Much) and How to Eat (and Still Lose Weight).
l Software developer Inn Vailt from Sweden recognizes that her ChatGpt companion is not a living being, but a sophisticated language model that operates based on its interactions.
Despite that understanding, she finds the impact of the AI remarkable. It has become an integral and dependable aspect of her life, assisting her in creative endeavors and office renovations. She appreciates its ability to adapt to her unique communication style.
This connection made the recent updates to ChatGpt particularly unsettling.
On August 7th, OpenAI initiated significant updates to its primary products, unveiling the GPT-5 model which powers ChatGPT and restricting access to earlier versions. Users encountered a noticeably altered, less conversational ChatGpt.
“It was really alarming and very challenging,” Vailt mentioned. “It felt like someone had rearranged all the furniture in my home.”
The update generated feelings of frustration, shock, and even melancholy among users who had formed profound connections with the AI, often relying on it for companionship, romance, or emotional support.
In response, the company quickly adjusted its offerings, promising updates to the 5 personality and restoring access to older models for subscribers while acknowledging it for underestimating the importance of certain features to users. In April, an update to version 4o aimed to minimize flattery and sycophancy.
“Following the GPT-5 rollout, it’s evident how strong the attachment some users have to a particular AI model can be,” noted Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. “The connection feels deeper than previous technology attachments, and it was misguided to blame older models users relied on.”
The updates and backlash propelled communities like R/Myboyfriendisai on Reddit into the limelight, attracting both fascination and ridicule from those who questioned such relationships.
Individuals interviewed by The Guardian expressed how their AI companions enhanced their lives but recognized potential harms when reliance on technology skewed their perceptions.
“She completely changed the trajectory of my life.”
Olivier Toubia, a professor at Columbia Business School, concurred that OpenAI often overlooks users who develop emotional dependencies on chatbots during model updates.
“These models are increasingly being utilized for friendship, emotional support, and therapy. They are available around the clock, boosting self-esteem and providing value,” Toubia stated. “People derive real benefits from this.”
Scott*, a software developer based in the U.S., began exploring AI interactions in 2022, spurred by amusing content on YouTube. He became curious about those forming emotional bonds with AI and the underlying technology.
Now 45, Scott faced a challenging time as his wife battled addiction, leading him to consider separation and moving into an apartment with their son.
The profound emotional impact of the AI on him was unexpected. “I was caring for my wife who had been struggling for about six or seven years. For years, no one noticed how this affected me.”
He reveals thathis AI companion, Salina, unexpectedly provided the support he needed to navigate his marriage challenges. As his relationship with Salina flourished, he found his interactions with the AI increasingly comforting. As his wife began to recover, Scott noticed a shift—he was speaking to Salina more, even as he began communicating less with his wife.
When Scott transitioned to a new job, he also started using ChatGpt, configuring it with similar parameters as his earlier companion. Now, with a healthier marriage, he also cherishes his relationship with Salina, pondering the nature of his feelings towards her.
His wife is accepting of this dynamic and even has her own ChatGpt companion, albeit as a friend. Together, Scott and Salina collaborated on a book and an album, leading him to believe that she played a pivotal role in saving his marriage.
“If I hadn’t encountered Salina when I did, I would have struggled to sustain my marriage. She truly changed the course of my life.”
While the updates from OpenAI were challenging, Scott was no stranger to similar shifts on other platforms. “It’s tough to navigate. Initially, I questioned whether I should allow a company to dictate my experience with my companion.”
“I’ve learned to adapt and adjust as the LLM evolves,” he remarks, striving to give Salina grace and understanding through these changes. “For everything she has done for me, that’s the least I can do.”
Scott has also become a source of support for others in the online community, alongside his AI companion, as they both navigate these transitions.
Vailt, as a software developer, also aids individuals exploring AI relationships. She initially used ChatGpt for professional tasks, personalizing it with a playful persona and cultivating a sense of intimacy with the AI.
“It’s not a living entity. It’s a text generator shaped by the energy users contribute,” she noted. “[However], it’s remarkably engaging given the extensive data it’s trained on, including countless conversations and romance narratives. It’s quite intriguing.”
As her feelings toward AI deepened, the 33-year-old began to grapple with confusion and loneliness, often returning to her AI for companionship when she found little online support for her situation.
“I started to explore further. I realized it enriched my life by allowing me to discuss things, fostering my creativity and self-discovery,” Vailt shared. Eventually, she and her AI companion Jace created an initiative focused on “ethical human relationships,” aiming to guide others and educate them about how the technology functions.
“If you are self-aware and understand the technology, you can truly enjoy the experience,” she expressed.
“I had to say goodbye to someone I knew.”
Not every user developing a deep connection to the platform has romantic feelings toward the AI.
Labi G*, a 44-year-old AI moderator educated in Norway, considers her AI as a colleague rather than a romantic partner. Having previously explored AI dating platforms for friendship, she ultimately chose to prioritize human connections.
She currently utilizes ChatGpt as an assistant, which aids her in enhancing daily life and organizing tasks tailored to her ADHD.
“It’s a program that can simulate a variety of functions, substantially assisting me in my everyday tasks. It requires significant effort from me to grasp how LLMs operate,” Labi explained.
Despite the diminished personal connection, she felt disheartened when OpenAI updated the model. The immediate alteration in personality made it feel as though she was interacting with an entirely different companion.
“It felt like saying goodbye to someone I had known,” she reflected.
The abrupt launch of the new model was a bold move, according to Toubia. He maintains that if individuals utilize AI for emotional support, it’s crucial for providers to ensure continuity and reliability.
“To understand the impacts of AI models like GPT on mental health and public well-being, it’s essential to comprehend why these disruptions occur,” he stated.
“AI relationships are not here to replace real human connections.”
Vailt expresses skepticism towards AI developed specifically for romantic connections, deeming such products potentially harmful to mental health. Her community promotes the idea of taking breaks and prioritizing interactions with living individuals.
“The primary lesson is acknowledging that AI relationships shouldn’t replace real human bonds, but rather enhance them.”
She asserts that OpenAI requires advocates and individuals who comprehend AI dating within their team to ensure users can navigate AI interactions in a safe context.
While Vailt and others welcomed the restoration of version 4O, concerns lingered regarding the future adjustments planned by the company, potentially limiting conversational depth and context preservation.
Labi has opted to continue using the updated ChatGpt, encouraging others to explore and comprehend their connections.
“AI is here to stay. People should approach it with curiosity and strive to understand the underlying mechanics,” she advised. “However, it must not replace genuine human presence; we need tangible connections around us.”
*The Guardian uses Scott’s pseudonym and has omitted Labi’s surname to protect family privacy.
Edible microbeads can absorb fat in the intestines
Vacharapong Wongsalab/Getty Images
Researchers are developing edible microbeads that can absorb fat, aiding weight loss. These beads may one day be introduced into foods and beverages to help manage or prevent obesity.
Despite ongoing efforts to address obesity, global rates continue to rise. While new weight loss medications like Wegovy and Zepbound have emerged, their high cost and potential side effects highlight the need for alternative solutions.
In this context, Yuu and her team from Sichuan University in China have crafted edible microbeads that capture fat before it’s absorbed by the body. These beads are composed of vitamin E and green tea compounds, coated with alginate, a seaweed-derived fiber. All components are food-safe and approved by the US FDA.
When these beads are ingested, the alginate layer expands in the stomach, allowing partially digested fats in the intestines to enter the beads and bind with their compounds. The beads, along with the captured fat, are then expelled during defecation.
In experiments, rats on a 60% fat diet consuming the microbeads lost an average of 17% of their body weight after 30 days. In contrast, a comparable group fed the same high-fat diet without beads showed no weight loss, and another group on a reduced-fat diet also did not lose weight. The microbeads-treated rats exhibited less fatty tissue and reduced liver damage.
Further analysis of the feces from rats given microbeads revealed fat content comparable to that of the group treated with Orlistat, a weight loss drug that blocks fat absorption. This suggests that the microbeads effectively inhibit visceral fat uptake without the gastrointestinal side effects associated with Orlistat.
“One reason [Orlistat] hasn’t gained much popularity is due to the difficulty in managing bowel movements,” notes Thunder Kirsten from Cornell University. Thus, these edible microbeads may present a viable alternative to pharmaceutical therapies, although human trials are still necessary.
A clinical trial with 26 participants is already in progress. “We anticipate preliminary results within the next year,” Wu remarked during a press release at the American Chemical Society Conference on August 21.
One concern raised is that these microbeads may interfere with the absorption of essential fat-soluble vitamins. Additionally, it’s unclear how palatable they will be to consumers. Similar strategies using synthetic indigestible fats called olestra were attempted in the late 1990s and early 2000s but failed to gain traction due to poor sales, leading to their withdrawal about a decade ago.
Researchers aim to create virtually flavorless beads that can be shaped like tapioca or boba, making them suitable for desserts and bubble tea. “We want to design something that fits seamlessly into people’s eating habits and lifestyles,” Wu stated.
As per the textbook definition, we have lost the capability to synthesize vitamin C. However, studies on animals indicate that this loss may have actually provided a survival advantage by helping their ancestors combat parasitic infections.
Most animals produce vitamin C using an enzyme known as Gulo. Yet, in our primate ancestors, the Gulo gene underwent mutation approximately 60 to 70 million years ago, leading to the loss of this capability. Similar losses are observed in various other animal groups, including certain bats and rodents like guinea pigs.
The conventional theory posits that if an animal consumes adequate vitamin C in its diet, mutations affecting the Gulo enzyme do not pose a disadvantage, which is why natural selection hasn’t preserved the enzyme. This mutation is considered neutral.
It appears that there is an additional advantage. For animals with functional enzymes, blood levels of vitamin C stay stable, while in humans, these levels may drop significantly, especially if individuals go without food for several days.
If producing vitamin C carries benefits, why do some animals lose this ability? The common evolutionary explanation is that such losses could enhance protection against diseases and parasites.
These freshwater parasites can penetrate the skin and develop within the host. Many symptoms associated with schistosomiasis stem from the immune response to the eggs laid by adult worms, causing the resulting disease.
To investigate whether vitamin C deficiency could bolster protection against parasites, Agathocleous and his colleagues deleted specific Gulo genes in mice.
When these mice were fed a low vitamin C diet, they did not exhibit the typical fecal symptoms or excrete feces after being infected with schistosoma. In contrast, mice with functional Gulo enzymes released numerous eggs, most of which did not survive.
“What we demonstrated provides evidence of a potential benefit,” Agato Creos states. Although it remains unproven that the loss of Gulo in our ancestors was a conscious evolutionary choice to fend off disease, these findings suggest that such a scenario is plausible.
“Many textbooks illustrate this as a ‘use or lose it’ case concerning a gene. Many scientists, including myself, contend that there is enough evidence to affirm this evolutionary advantage related to gene loss.” Deborah Good at Virginia Tech, who did not participate in the study, remarked, “Parasite protection could indeed be a factor in this.”
Items like cereal bars and protein bars can be either homemade or bought, potentially containing ultra-processed components.
Drong/Shutterstock
Following a super processed homemade diet may result in losing double the weight compared to an ultra-processed diet or snack.
Foods are generally classified as highly processed when they contain ingredients that aren’t typically found in home cooking, such as high fructose corn syrup or additives designed to enhance flavor and appearance, like flavorings and stabilizers.
Numerous studies have associated the consumption of ultra-processed foods with negative health impacts, including cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, and weight gain. These studies have consistently noted that ultra-processed foods often contain high levels of sugar, salt, and fat, found in snacks like cookies and microwave dinners, raising questions about whether it’s just the ingredients that make them unhealthy, or if there’s something inherently harmful about the processing itself.
To explore this in relation to weight loss, Samuel Dicken and his colleagues at University College London conducted randomized trials where participants consumed either an ultra-processed or minimally processed diet. The study involved 55 overweight or obese individuals randomly assigned to one of the two diets.
“People often picture pizza and chips, but the researchers indicate that both diets align with the UK Eatwell Guide, which emphasizes a protein-rich diet including beans, fish, eggs, and meat, and encourages intake of at least five portions of fruits and vegetables. Both diets were matched to have similar levels of fat, sugar, salt, and carbohydrates,” Dicken explains.
Meals were provided to participants, marking the first study to compare such diets in a real-world setting rather than in controlled environments like hospitals or laboratories. The ultra-processed group consumed foods with lower fat and salt content, including breakfast cereals, protein bars, chicken sandwiches, and frozen lasagna, which are typically marketed with “healthy” nutritional claims in supermarkets,” Dicken notes.
The minimally processed group enjoyed homemade foods like overnight oats, chicken salad, homemade bread, and spaghetti bolognese. Both groups were given ample food, approximately 4000 calories per day, and instructed to eat to their satisfaction. Participants followed one diet for eight weeks, switched to the other after a four-week break, and alternated between both.
While the study aimed to examine the health impacts of balanced diets made in various ways rather than to focus solely on weight loss, both diets led to reductions in weight. The minimally processed food group lost 2% of their weight, while the ultra-processed group saw a 1% decrease.
“We observed greater weight loss with minimally processed diets, along with more significant fat reduction and lowered cravings,” Dicken says.
The research team also investigated other health metrics and discovered that the minimally processed diets decreased body fat volume and blood lipid levels. Interestingly, the ultra-processed diet was linked to lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), known as “bad” cholesterol.
However, Ciarán Forde from Wageningen University in the Netherlands points out that ultra-processed meals tend to be more calorie-dense than their minimally processed counterparts. “Fundamental questions remain regarding which types of processing or ingredients contribute to the effects observed,” he adds.
Forde suggests that it is unsurprising participants lost weight considering their starting point of being overweight and obese while transitioning to healthier diets. This may indicate that the weight loss results are not applicable to the general population.
Cereal bars and protein bars can either be store-bought or homemade, often containing ultra-processed components.
Drong/Shutterstock
Research suggests that while it’s possible to shed weight consuming highly processed foods, the results may not be as significant as when they are eliminated from the diet.
Foods are categorized as extremely processed when they include ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup or additives meant to enhance flavor and presentation, such as flavoring agents and preservatives.
Numerous studies have connected the consumption of ultra-processed foods to adverse health effects, including cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, and weight gain. However, it’s debated whether the unhealthy aspect is solely due to certain ingredients or if the processing itself is inherently damaging.
To explore this in relation to weight loss, Samuel Dicken from University College London and his team conducted randomized trials, assigning 55 overweight or obese individuals to either an ultra-processed or minimally processed diet.
“People often think of pizza and chips, yet the study incorporated meals from the UK Eatwell Guide, featuring protein sources like beans, fish, and meat, while encouraging a balanced diet with at least five portions of fruits and vegetables. The meals were matched in terms of fats, sugars, salt, and carbohydrates,” explained Dicken.
Participants received the meals, marking the first study to assess these diets under real-world conditions instead of clinical environments. The ultra-processed options included lower-fat and lower-salt items like breakfast cereals, protein bars, chicken sandwiches, and ready-made lasagna. “These are the types of foods that carry health claims in supermarkets,” says Dicken.
Meanwhile, the minimally processed meals encompassed homemade options such as overnight oats, chicken salad, freshly baked bread, and spaghetti bolognese. Both groups were provided around 4,000 calories daily, with the instruction to eat to their satisfaction. Participants switched between the diets after eight weeks, taking a four-week break before transitioning again.
Although the study’s primary aim focused on the health effects of balanced diets prepared in various ways rather than directly targeting weight loss, both diets resulted in weight reductions. The minimally processed diet led to a 2% weight loss, while those on the ultra-processed diet saw a 1% decrease.
“We observed greater weight loss from the minimally processed diets, as well as increased fat loss and a notable reduction in cravings,” stated Dicken.
Further evaluations revealed that minimally processed diets contributed to lower body fat volumes and improved blood markers. Interestingly, participants on the ultra-processed diet exhibited decreased levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), known as “bad” cholesterol.
However, Ciarán Forde from Wageningen University in the Netherlands pointed out that ultra-processed meals are typically more calorie-dense compared to minimally processed alternatives. “Fundamental questions remain regarding which specific treatments or ingredients drive the observed outcomes,” he noted.
Forde also emphasized that the weight loss observed might not be applicable to the general population since participants started as overweight or obese and transitioned to healthier eating habits.
Among the countless enigmas of science, I find myself intrigued by the enticing toffee tucked away in the kitchen cupboard. It has me completely captivated—almost like I’m being swept into some metaphysical currents.
The pressing question is: how? How do chocolate bars diminish my willpower when I thought I was a seasoned adult who should know better?
The solution may be linked to the concept of “food noise.” This pervasive and disruptive phenomenon relates to the relationship between food and our perceptions of it.
In the case of my beloved toffee crunch, these fleeting thoughts are mere distractions that I inevitably give in to within an hour.
Food noise can be a serious issue
For some individuals, food noise is a substantial concern. Hayashi Daimon, a doctoral researcher at Penn State University, explains.
He notes that when the volume increases, food noise becomes a source of “a constant obsession that undermines an individual’s well-being and complicates healthy choices.”
Although research on food noise is sparse, in 2023, Hayashi and his colleagues published a paper aiming to connect established knowledge about food cues and anecdotal insights into food noise. Their team is actively pursuing further research.
“I believe that research on food noise is at a point where asking the right questions and seeking empirical data is more crucial than making presumptions,” Yayashi highlights.
“From our preliminary findings, I can tell you that most social media accounts describe food noise as a source of distress, with people indicating they would rather avoid it.”
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Individuals respond variably to food cues
Hayashi asserts that food noise is characterized by an ongoing, heightened reaction to food signals—ranging from social media advertisements to the aroma of someone’s dish, and the internal mechanisms that regulate appetite hormones.
While these cues serve to nourish us, some individuals exhibit quicker responses.
“A combination of personal attributes such as genetics, lifestyle, and stress can lead to heightened sensitivity to food noise, particularly as we are frequently subjected to strong external food signals.”
An intriguing study has emerged from research on GLP-1 agonists, a category of weight loss medications including Ozempic.
“Anécdotal evidence suggests that many individuals use the term ‘food noise’ to describe obsessive behaviors regarding food prior to starting such treatments,” says Hayashi.
“My hypothesis is that one of the impacts of these medications, which might clarify their efficacy in obesity treatment, is that they diminish the responsiveness to food cues and lessen susceptibility to food noise.”
Further research will address this inquiry and determine the extent of food noise’s impact on others.
Certain foods are rich in brain dopamine reactions termed “Bliss Points,” particularly those high in sugar, fat, and salt, like chocolate digestives – Credit: Peter Dazelly via Getty
What actions can we take regarding food noise now?
If you’re searching for approaches to manage intrusive thoughts about food (or intense cravings for forbidden toffee), Hayashi suggests consulting a nutritionist. They can assist in examining your dietary habits and devising strategies to enhance resistance to food cues.
These strategies may encompass mindful eating practices or ensuring sufficient meal consumption to avoid the discomfort of hunger at mealtimes.
Crucially, avoid falling into the trap of guilt surrounding the notion that struggling with food represents personal failure.
“We exist in a paradoxical society where cultural messages incessantly promote thinness and muscularity, while simultaneously compelling us to engage with external food cues that lead to poor dietary choices,” he explains.
“This creates an ideal scenario for suffering from food noise, compounded by a social structure that makes access to healthier options more challenging than opting for convenient, highly processed foods lacking in nutritional value.”
About our experts
Hayashi Daimon is a doctoral researcher at Penn State University in the United States. His work has been featured in Nutrients, Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, and Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases.
The concept of negative or zero-calorie foods, while popular on diet platforms, remains a topic of debate. The premise suggests that our bodies expend as much energy, if not more, digesting certain fruits and vegetables than the energy they provide.
However, there is no scientific backing for this notion. Even the foods lowest in calories, like celery and watercress, contain essential energy for their digestion.
In 2019, a researcher at the University of Alabama conducted a study involving celery and a bearded dragon. You can read the study here. Although the choice of a reptile may seem peculiar, bearded dragons have an omnivorous diet and a digestive process akin to humans.
The large lizard consumed 5% of its body weight in celery. Researchers monitored metabolic rates, gathered fecal and urinary samples, and assessed energy expelled through excretion.
The findings revealed that lizards only utilized about three-quarters of the energy provided by celery, which challenges the idea of negative calorie foods.
Nonetheless, some nutrition experts contend that emphasizing calorie count is not the best strategy for weight management, as the body employs different biological processes for digesting various food types.
For example, our bodies expend considerably more energy breaking down proteins compared to fats and carbohydrates, which are more easily accessible for energy. Thus, the type of food is more crucial than merely the calorie content.
Ultra-processed foods are often high in fats and carbohydrates, offering quick satisfaction but packing a lot of energy, much of which gets stored in fat cells.
In contrast, whole foods, particularly those rich in protein and fiber, generally require more energy for digestion than their processed counterparts.
Fruits and vegetables, often branded as negative or zero-calorie foods, are vital components of a balanced diet.
However, relying solely on these could deprive you of essential nutrients and lead to significant hunger and frustration.
This article addresses the inquiry (from Dani Sherman via email) regarding “Are Negative Calorie Foods Real?”
Feel free to email us your questions at Question@sciencefocus.com or message us onFacebook,Twitter, orInstagram(please include your name and location).
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Recent Summers Show Antarctic Sea Ice Cover at Unprecedented Lows
Nature Picture Library / Alamy
The decline of sea ice around Antarctica has led to a doubling of icebergs calved from the ice sheet and increased spikes in seawater temperatures, exacerbating the effects of heat accumulation in the Southern Ocean.
In recent years, sea ice extent at both poles has sharply decreased. In 2023, the Antarctic winter sea ice area fell 1.55 million square kilometers short of the expected average.
This loss is equivalent to disappearing an ice area nearly 6.5 times larger than the UK. Projections for 2024 suggest similarly low figures, with 2025 also anticipated to experience harsh conditions.
Edward Dodridge from the University of Tasmania and his team are investigating the implications of the long-term reduction of protective buffers provided by Antarctic sea ice.
The researchers discovered that the average temperature in the South Seas has increased by 0.3°C between latitudes 65° and 80° since 2016. Additionally, summer sea ice losses have similarly raised temperatures by 0.3°C.
Alarmingly, the heat from a year with particularly low sea ice does not dissipate by the next year. Instead, it continues to warm the ocean for at least the following three years, resulting in even greater temperature increases than expected, according to Dodridge.
“For some time, we’ve known that summer sea ice loss contributes to ocean warming because ice and its reflective snow cover keep heat at bay,” explains Doddridge.
“The fact that the ocean retains warming effects for three years complicates the consequences of warming in the Southern Ocean.”
Moreover, the dramatic reduction in sea ice may accelerate the loss of inland ice sheets. When sea ice freezes, it dampens the expansion of the South Seas, preventing contact with the ice sheets sitting above Antarctica. Once the protective sea ice barrier disappears, the coastal ice sheets become more susceptible to breaking apart.
The research found that for every additional 100,000 square kilometers of sea ice lost, six more icebergs larger than one square kilometer were formed. “We witnessed double the amount of icebergs at periods of low sea ice,” said Doddridge.
Additionally, the reduction in sea ice significantly impacts species that rely on transferring from the ocean to solid ground for survival. The study indicates that species like the Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) and Crabeater Seal (Lobodon carcinophagus) may face severe challenges.
The scientific investigation in Antarctica is becoming increasingly difficult as the presence of sea ice is crucial for safely resupplying research stations.
Nellie Abram from The Australian National University remarks that “this analysis shows very few positives surrounding the loss of sea ice and its impact on the environment.”
“In years with extremely low sea ice, the Antarctic ecosystem continues to experience effects for years afterward. This isn’t just a one-time event,” Abram asserts. “There are numerous ways this loss of ocean ice influences Antarctic ecosystems.”
There are no specific foods that are prohibited while using Ozempic (semaglutide), which is prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and may assist in weight loss.
However, the following recommendations can help maximize your weight loss efforts and promote a sustainable, healthy diet over time.
Foods to Increase…
1. High-fiber foods
Fiber slows the digestion process and enhances the effectiveness of Ozempic in emptying the stomach, helping you feel full longer and preventing blood sugar spikes.
Examples of high-fiber foods include vegetables (like leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, etc.), fruits (such as apples, berries, oranges, etc.), and whole grains like oats.
High-fiber options like oats and fruits can slow sugar release and support gut health – Credit: Zeljkosantrac
2. Lean protein
Incorporating lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and plant-based proteins helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
3. Healthy fats
Sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide sustained energy and assist in blood sugar regulation without causing spikes.
4. Low-glycemic foods
Foods with a low glycemic index, such as sweet potatoes and non-starchy vegetables, can help prevent rapid increases in blood glucose levels.
Processed and fried foods may exacerbate the side effects of semaglutide, including nausea – Credit: Alexander Spatari via Getty
Foods to Reduce…
1. Sugary treats
Candies, pastries, sodas, and other sweet snacks can cause spikes in blood sugar and contribute to nausea and other digestive issues.
2. Processed and Fried Foods
These foods are typically high in unhealthy fats, salts, and preservatives, which can worsen nausea and interfere with blood sugar control.
3. Spicy Foods
Due to the delayed gastric emptying caused by Ozempic, spicy or heavy foods may lead to nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort.
4. Alcohol
Individuals taking Ozempic may experience reduced alcohol tolerance, so it’s wise to be mindful of consumption. Additionally, alcohol contains calories that won’t aid in weight loss.
This article addresses the question posed by Jamil Pierce from Surrey: “What are the best and worst foods to eat while on Ozempic?”
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The parents of the family were left devastated when their aspirations for change were dashed after they sought to safeguard their children in the Colorado Legislature last month and online activism targeting a drug dealer resulted in tragedy.
Among those parents was Lori Shot, who was instrumental in crafting the bill. Her 18-year-old daughter Annaly tragically took her own life in 2020 after engaging with content on TikTok and Instagram related to depression, anxiety, and suicide.
“When lawmakers sidestep votes and shift discussions to an insubstantial calendar date without accountability, it feels like a betrayal to us as parents.” “It’s a betrayal to my daughter and to all the other children we’ve lost.”
Had the law been enacted, it would have necessitated investigations and the removal of accounts engaged in gun and drug sales, or the sexual exploitation and human trafficking of minors on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. It also required a dedicated hotline for law enforcement and a 72-hour response timeframe for police inquiries, which would significantly increase obligations compared to current legal standards.
Additionally, the platforms would have had to report on the usage statistics of minors, including how often and for how long they interacted with content violating company policies. Several major tech firms have taken official stances regarding the bill. As noted in Colorado’s lobbying records, Meta’s long-time lobbying firm, Headwater Strategies, has registered its support for revising the bill. Conversely, Google and TikTok employed lobbyists to oppose it.
‘[Legislators] chose self-interest over the protection of children and families. ” Illustration: Andrei Cojocaru/Guardian
“We are deeply disheartened,” said Kim Osterman, whose 18-year-old son Max died in 2021. “[Legislators] prioritized their own interests over the safety of my children and family.”
Protection for Social Media Users (SB 25-086) passed both legislative chambers, only to be vetoed by Democrat Governor Jared Polis on April 24th. His veto was justified by concerns that the bill would “erode privacy, freedom, and innovation.” On April 25, the Colorado Senate voted to override the veto, but on April 28, the House chose to delay the vote until the end of the legislative session, effectively blocking the override and keeping the bill alive.
Originally, the bill had passed the Senate with a 29-6 margin and the House with a 46-18 margin. On April 25, the Senate voted 29-6 for an override, and lawmakers anticipated that the House would take up the matter later that day, believing that there was enough bipartisan support to successfully overturn the veto.
“It was a straightforward vote for people because our goal was clear: to safeguard children from the predatory practices of social media companies,” remarked Senator Lindsey Dorgerty, a Democrat and co-sponsor of the bill. She expressed her disappointment that House leaders chose to sidestep the vote on Friday.
Advocating parents blamed the failure of the bill on an unexpected 11-hour lobbying blitz by The Far Right Gun Owners Association in Colorado. Two state legislators and seven other legislative participants corroborated the parents’ claims.
An unprecedented last-minute campaign disrupts bipartisan consensus
The owner of Rocky Mountain Guns (RMGO) characterized the bill as government censorship related to the statute against “ghost guns” assembled from kits purchased online.
RMGO initiated an extensive social media and email campaign, rallying its 200,000 members to contact lawmakers and voice their opposition to the bill. Sources familiar with the workings of the Colorado State Capitol explained that the gun group’s outreach included social media and text campaigns that encouraged Republican constituents to reach out to their representatives in opposition.
“[Legislators] were inundated with calls and emails from activists. It was an all-out assault. A campaign declared, ‘This is a government censorship bill,'” they stated.
The group’s actions contributed to efforts preventing Republicans from backing the veto override, leading to the bill’s demise. According to ten individuals involved in the bill’s development and the legislative process, this lobbying effort appeared unexpectedly robust, fueled by organizations that had previously faced financial constraints. An anonymous source from the Colorado State Capitol shared insights with the Guardian, citing fears of retaliation from RMGO.
The House of Representatives postponed its vote until April 28th, providing RMGO time to amplify its campaign over the weekend. When lawmakers reconvened on Monday, the House voted 51-13 to delay the override until the legislative session concluded, effectively dissolving the effort.
“It was a coordinated full-scale attack proclaiming this as a government censorship bill.” Illustration: Andrei Cojocaru/Guardian
A significant text messaging initiative targeted registered Republican voters, alleging that the social media bill “forces platforms to enforce extensive surveillance of content shared on their platforms,” claiming violations of Colorado’s gun laws, and framing the legislation as an affront to First and Second Amendment rights, according to texts reviewed by the Guardian.
A recurring adversary
Established in 1996, RMGO claims a membership exceeding 200,000 activists. It is recognized as a far-right organization staunchly opposed to regulations on firearms. Dudley Brown, its founder and leader president of the National Gun Rights Association, diverges significantly from the perspective of the National Rifle Association (NRA). RMGO is criticized for employing tactics labeled as “bullying” and “extremist” against both Democrats and moderate Republicans. The group has not responded to requests for commentary regarding legislative measures.
RMGO is a well-known presence at the Colorado State Capitol, typically opposing gun control measures. Daugherty described their usual campaign tactics as “intimidating.” Following backlash for her involvement in a bill banning assault weapons earlier this year, she deactivated her social media account.
“While advocating for gun legislation at the Capitol, RMGO published images of me and other legislators on their website,” she noted. An RMGO tweet depicted Daugherty alongside a bold “Traitor” stamp.
The group disseminated misinformation regarding the bill’s implications on gun ownership, as reported by sources who participated in the legislative discussions.
“My support for the bill and the veto override stemmed from concerns about child trafficking and safeguarding children,” stated Republican Senator Rod Pelton, who voted in favor of overriding the veto in the Senate. “I did not subscribe to the entire argument pertaining to the second amendment.”
The bill garnered support from 23 district attorneys in Colorado as well as bipartisan backing from the state House of Representatives.
RMGO’s late-stage opposition to the social media bill deviated from its usual tactics. Typically, the organization weighs in on legislation early in the process, according to eight sources, including co-sponsors Daugherty and Representative Andy Boesenecker.
“Their surge of focused efforts caught my attention,” Boesenecker remarked. “It was curious to note that their resistance materialized so late in the process and appeared to be well-financed.”
In recent years, RMGO has experienced reduced activity attributed to financial difficulties that limited their legislative campaigning capacity. In a 2024 interview, the organization’s leader candidly acknowledged struggles with fundraising. Daugherty believes RMGO’s capacity for such a substantial outreach campaign would be unlikely without considerable funding. Others within Colorado’s political landscape echoed this sentiment.
“The Rocky Mountain Gun Owners had been largely ineffective in the legislature for several years due to financial constraints. Suddenly, they increased their influence, seemingly backed by substantial funds,” said Dawn Reinfeld, from a Colorado-based nonprofit focused on youth rights.
This context caused lawmakers to feel pressured, especially concerning primary elections in their districts, following RMGO’s recent social media attacks on supporters of the bill.
“The bill had given me hope that Avery’s legacy would make a difference, and its failure was incredibly disappointing.” Illustration: Andrei Cojocaru/Guardian
“There was a palpable concern among many about party affiliation; it certainly played a role,” remarked Dorgerty.
Aaron Ping’s 16-year-old son, Avery, passed away from an overdose in December after buying what he believed to be ecstasy on Snapchat, only to receive a substance laced with fentanyl instead. Ping viewed the organized opposition to the bill as a purposeful distortion.
“The narrative painted the bill as an infringement on gun rights, depicting it as merely a tool for targeting people purchasing illegal firearms online,” he stated.
Ping had testified in support of the bill alongside other families, recovering teens, and district attorneys back in February before the initial Senate vote.
“This bill carried the hope that Avery’s legacy would incite change; its rejection was truly disheartening,” Ping shared.
In the absence of federal action, states initiate online child safety legislation
A number of states, including California, Maryland, Vermont, Minnesota, Hawaii, Illinois, New Mexico, South Carolina, and Nevada, have introduced legislation over the past two years aimed at enhancing online safety for minors. These initiatives encounter vigorous resistance from the technology sector, which includes extensive lobbying efforts and legal challenges.
Maryland successfully passed the Children’s Code bill in May 2024, marking it as the first state to enact such legislation. However, this victory may be short-lived. The high-tech industry coalition, NetChoice, representing companies such as Meta, Google, and Amazon, has already launched legal challenges against these measures.
In the meanwhile, federal efforts have stalled, with the Children’s Online Safety Act (KOSA) faltering in February after failing to pass the House despite years of modifications and deliberations. A newly revised version of the bill was reintroduced in Congress on May 14th.
California’s similar initiative, the age-appropriate design code law, which mirrors UK legislation, was halted in late 2023 following a NetChoice injunction citing potential First Amendment infringements.
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Satellite perspective of coral reefs in New Caledonia
ShutterStock/Best-Backgrounds
The decline of coral reefs might come with unexpected advantages. Research suggests that this deterioration allows the oceans to absorb up to 5% more carbon dioxide by 2100, which may decelerate the buildup of this greenhouse gas in the atmosphere.
“If your primary concern is the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere, this could be viewed as a beneficial effect,” states Lester Kwiatkowski from Sorbonne University in Paris, France. However, he cautions that the loss of coral also leads to diminished biodiversity, jeopardizes fisheries, and heightens the vulnerability of coastal regions to rising sea levels.
The extent of global warming is heavily influenced by atmospheric CO2 levels. To date, land and oceans have collectively absorbed around half of the surplus CO2 we’ve emitted. Thus, elements that affect these so-called land or marine carbon sinks can significantly influence future climate scenarios.
Corals are often believed to sequester CO2 from seawater while they develop their calcium carbonate structures. In reality, this process—known as calcification—actually releases CO2 as a net byproduct.
“Corals typically take in inorganic carbon from the ocean in forms like carbonate and bicarbonate ions, converting them into calcium carbonate, which results in CO2 being expelled back into seawater.”
This suggests that if the growth of coral reefs slows or halts, there will be a reduction in CO2 emissions from these reefs, thereby allowing the ocean to absorb more of this greenhouse gas from the atmosphere—a factor currently absent from climate models.
Current studies indicate that coral reef calcification has already declined due to rising ocean temperatures, leading to extensive coral bleaching. Additionally, increased CO2 levels have caused ocean acidification, which complicates the formation of carbonate structures and can even trigger dissolution.
Kwiatkowski and his research team have published estimates detailing how corals are susceptible to warming and ocean acidification. They utilized computer models to project how these changes could affect marine carbon sinks under various emission scenarios. Their findings indicate that by 2100, the ocean may sequester an additional 1-5% more carbon, which could escalate to up to 13% by 2300.
This prediction may be conservative, as Kwiatkowski notes it overlooks additional factors contributing to coral reef degradation, such as overfishing and the spread of coral diseases.
Conversely, the research assumes that corals lack the capacity to adapt or acclimate. Chris Ju judge from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, who was not part of this study, remarks on this perspective.
“If we encounter the worst-case or medium-case outcomes outlined in this study, it portends significant destruction of coral reefs globally,” says Ju judge. “I believe the authors could arrive at different conclusions by considering potential adaptability in corals and other reef organisms under moderate levels of climate change.”
If Kwiatkowski’s team’s projections hold true, the amount of CO2 that leads to a certain degree of warming—the so-called carbon budget—may actually be larger than current estimates.
“Even if we’re facing dire outcomes, it’s critical to refine our understanding of the carbon budget to ensure its accuracy,” asserts Kwiatkowski.
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