Tag Archives: weight

Suppressing Appetite to Lose Weight: The Effects of Weight Loss Drugs on Eating and Exercising Desires

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Weight loss drugs may reduce people's desire to exercise

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Semaglutide, found in medicines such as Ozempic and Wigovy, reduces the amount of movement in mice. This finding suggests that these weight loss drugs may reduce people's motivation to exercise.

Semaglutide helps treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates blood sugar and suppresses appetite. GLP-1 also suppresses activity in brain areas involved in reward processing and craving. This may explain why people taking semaglutide-based drugs no longer find eating as rewarding or pleasurable as they did before taking the drug. This is also probably why some studies show that semaglutide may also be helpful in treating substance use disorders.

ralph dileone Researchers at Yale University wanted to know whether semaglutide also affects other rewarding behaviors, such as exercise, which is known to improve mood and memory. So they gave seven mice semaglutide and an equal number a placebo and measured how far the mice ran on an exercise wheel each day.

On average, patients treated with semaglutide ran about half the distance as those given a placebo. This suggests that motivation for exercise may be low.

To further test this, the researchers administered semaglutide to another group of 15 mice and a placebo for 5 days to another group of similarly sized mice, and investigated their willingness to exercise on a wheel. did. But this time, the exercise wheel locked up periodically while the animal was running on it. To release the lock, the mouse had to press a lever with its nose. Each time the wheel locked, it became progressively more difficult to unlock, requiring the mouse to press the lever many more times. “Eventually they quit,” says DiLeone, who presented these findings at the Society for Neuroscience meeting in Chicago on October 7. “We call that their breakpoint. It's a proxy for how willing they are to access the wheel.”

The maximum number of lever presses in the semaglutide-treated mice was, on average, 25% lower than in the control animals. The researchers repeated the experiment in obese mice and found similar results.

Taken together, these findings suggest that semaglutide-based drugs, such as Ozempic and Wigovy, may reduce motivation to exercise, similar to reducing food and drug cravings. Masu. But DiLeone says there's still no evidence that this applies to humans. This could be because most of the data on Wegovy and Ozempic comes from people participating in weight-loss programs that include exercise, he says.

Still, these findings highlight that these drugs can interfere not only with negative behaviors but also with positive ones. ”[This] Data suggests there are still motivated behaviors that can be changed [with semaglutide] I haven't heard it yet.'' Karolina Skibicka at Penn State University.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Research shows new medication similar to Ozempic results in 13% reduction in body weight

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Weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have been under discussion for some time, but new research suggests there may be better alternatives. Enter Amicretin, a novel weight-loss treatment available in pill form rather than injection.

In the initial human trials of this new weight loss medication, the developer Novo Nordisk A/S (the company behind Ozempic) saw promising results: participants taking Amicretin lost an average of 13.1 percent of their body weight over a 12-week period.

So, how does this new weight loss pill function? Amicretin is a dual-acting drug that emulates the effects of two hormones crucial in weight loss: amylin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which help curb hunger and regulate appetite.

Published in the journal Diabetology, the study compared average weight loss in three groups with BMIs between 25 and 39.9 who did not have diabetes.

By the end of the 12-week study, subjects taking two 50 mg tablets of Amicretin lost 13.1% of their body weight, compared to 10.4% in those taking one 50 mg tablet. In contrast, the placebo group only lost an average of 1.1% of their body weight throughout the study.

Compared to other weight loss drugs, a recent study in JAMA Internal Medicine found that patients taking another weight-loss drug, Maunjaro, lost 5.9% body fat in 3 months, while those on Ozempic saw a decrease of 3.6%.

“The difference from injectable treatments is significant,” states obesity expert Christopher Clemmensen. “The dual mode of action offers promise, making Amicretin a valuable advancement for Novo Nordisk.”

While weight-loss drugs show promise in combating obesity worldwide, further confirmation awaits larger trials on individuals with chronic conditions. Professor Navid Sattar emphasizes the importance of developing safe and accessible medications for the millions suffering from obesity.

Excitement surrounds this early-stage study of a novel oral weight-loss medication combination due to its rapid effects on body weight.

About our experts

Associate Professor Christopher Clemmensen leads the Clemmensen Group at the University of Copenhagen, studying biological weight regulation and developing obesity treatment strategies. His research appears in respected publications such as Natural Metabolism and Molecular Metabolism.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Guaranteed Method to Lose Weight and Maintain it: The Power of Fasting

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In the past, intermittent fasting was not a choice due to scarcity of food. People would go hours or days without eating. Today, we have access to food whenever we want. This shift in eating habits has led to questions about the benefits of fasting and its potential reintroduction.

Intermittent fasting usually involves limiting food intake to specific times or days, like eating only for eight hours out of 24 (16:8 diet) or restricting calories for two days out of seven (5:2 diet).

Strong Points

Intermittent fasting can help with weight loss, particularly fat loss, as it reduces overall caloric intake. It also provides structure to eating days and can be flexible and intuitive. Some benefits include decreased hunger, lower levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin, reduced appetite, and improved fat burning.

Fasting may also lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and improve vascular health. Research shows that intermittent fasting is beneficial for cardiometabolic health and may have positive effects on long-term cardiovascular health.

There is evidence to suggest that fasting can protect against issues related to aging, improve autophagy, and potentially benefit brain health and cancer risk, but more research is needed to support these claims.

Cons

Concerns about fasting include potential muscle loss and the lack of long-term studies to support its safety. Some studies suggest that restricting eating to less than eight hours a day could increase the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, but data collection methods and sample sizes in these studies may be flawed.

There is also a risk of reduced protein intake with intermittent fasting, which could be problematic for some individuals, especially those with a history of eating disorders or health conditions that require regular meals.

Experts recommend ensuring adequate protein intake and incorporating strength training if trying intermittent fasting. It’s important to approach fasting like any other diet, not as a permanent solution, and to pay attention to food choices when breaking the fast.

About our experts

Dr. Jason Fung, Dr. Darryl Gioffre, Brady Holmer, and Drew Price are experts in their fields and have published work related to intermittent fasting, nutrition, and health.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

YouTube restricts adolescents’ access to weight and fitness-related videos

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YouTube is taking steps to stop recommending videos to teenagers that promote certain fitness levels, weights, or physical characteristics after experts warn about the potential harm of repeated viewing.

Although 13- to 17-year-olds can still watch videos on the platform, YouTube will no longer automatically lead them to a “maze” of related content through algorithms.

While this type of content does not violate YouTube’s guidelines, the platform recognizes the negative impact it can have on the health of some users if viewed repeatedly.

Dr Garth Graham, YouTube’s head of global health, stated that repeated exposure to idealized standards could lead teenagers to develop unrealistic self-perceptions and negative beliefs about themselves.

Experts from YouTube’s Youth and Family Advisory Board advised that certain categories of videos, harmless individually, could become troubling when viewed repeatedly.

YouTube’s new guidelines, being rolled out globally, target content that idealizes certain physical features, fitness, weight, or social aggression, among others.

Teenagers who have registered their age on the platform will no longer be repeatedly recommended such topics, following a safety framework already implemented in the US.

Clinician and YouTube advisor Allison Briscoe Smith emphasized the importance of setting “guardrails” to help teens maintain healthy self-perceptions when exposed to idealized standards.

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In the UK, new online safety legislation mandates technology companies to protect children from harmful content and consider the risks their algorithms may pose to under-18s by exposing them to harmful content.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Keto diet promotes weight loss while also raising cholesterol levels

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On the keto diet, most of your calories come from fat.

Shutterstock/George Dolgic

The keto diet, which gets most of its calories from fat and few from carbohydrates, can certainly lead to fat loss, but it can also clog arteries and harm your gut flora.

Also known as the ketogenic diet, this diet forces your body to use a different type of fuel. Instead of relying on glucose from carbohydrates, you rely on ketones, a type of fuel your liver produces from your fat stores, which can lead to weight loss.

In previous studies, Comparing people who follow a ketogenic diet to those who don't suggests there are both advantages and disadvantages.

now, Javier Gonzalez Researchers at the University of Bath in the UK conducted the largest randomized controlled trial in medical evidence. They recruited 53 non-obese people with an average age of 34. They randomly assigned about one-third of them to a ketogenic diet, in which less than 8% of energy came from total carbohydrates and more than 70% came from fat.

The remaining third of participants were instructed to follow a low-carbohydrate diet, with 5 percent of their energy intake coming from 'free' sugars – a type of carbohydrate found in foods such as syrup, cakes and biscuits – and 45 percent and 35 percent from other carbohydrates and fat respectively.

The remaining third consumed diets with moderate amounts of free sugars, accounting for just under 20% of their energy intake, while carbohydrate and fat intakes without free sugars were around 30% and 35%, respectively. These participants acted as the control group. Protein intake was between 15-18% across all diets.

After one month, x-rays showed that participants on the ketogenic diet had lost an average of 1.6 kg of fat. The researchers verified that participants were following the diet by measuring ketone levels in their blood, urine, and breath. Food diaries also assessed adherence to the diet.

Meanwhile, those on low-carb diets lost an average of one kilogram of fat, while those on moderate diets lost nothing. By having participants intermittently wear activity monitors to estimate their energy intake, the team found that the fat loss was due to reduced calorie intake, not increased activity, something that hadn't been known before, Gonzalez says.

But despite greater fat loss, the ketogenic diet group had 16 percent higher levels of “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol than the control group, and 26 percent higher levels of apolipoprotein B, a protein that clogs arteries and increases the risk of heart-related events. In contrast, people on the low-carb diet had 10 percent lower LDL cholesterol levels than the control group, and no change in apolipoprotein B levels.

The researchers also found that people on a ketogenic diet had lower levels of a type of gut bacteria than those on a moderately low-carb diet. Bifidobacteriawhich Helps produce vitamin B and It has been shown to strengthen the immune systemThe same wasn't true for those on a low-carb diet, likely because those on the ketogenic diet consumed less fiber. Bifidobacteria Level, Gonzalez says.

However, it is unclear whether the ketogenic diet truly has a negative effect on the gut microbiome, because we do not fully know what the optimal diet is or what the full effects of the ketogenic diet are. Bifidobacteria says Natasha Scholer At Great Ormond Street Hospital in London.

Additionally, while elevated apolipoprotein B levels are a concern, the elevated cholesterol levels seen in the study aren't necessarily harmful unless they reach a dangerous threshold, Scholer said.

Longer-term studies are also needed to determine whether the weight-loss benefits of ketogenic diets outweigh potential concerns about cholesterol and gut health in obese people, Scholer said.

Ultimately, the main challenge for obese or overweight people to lose weight is following a diet, says Scholer: “Whether it's a normal carbohydrate diet, a low-calorie diet, or a calorie-for-calorie reduced-carb diet, if you stick to it, you will generally lose weight.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Scientists claim that fat can be burned naturally in new weight loss discovery

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Weight loss can be a challenging journey, but there may be a breakthrough discovery that could make it easier. Scientists have found a way to burn calories without changing your diet or exercising, thanks to a fat-burning mechanism in your body known as “beige fat.”

While diet and exercise are still crucial, researchers from the University of San Francisco have identified a way to convert regular white fat cells into beige fat cells.

In most mammals, including humans, there are three types of fat cells: white, brown, and beige. White fat cells store calories, brown fat cells burn energy for heat, and beige fat cells can do both.

This conversion from white to beige fat cells allows the body to naturally burn fat more efficiently.

Although the study was conducted with mice, it could pave the way for new weight-loss drugs and shed light on why previous trials have not been successful.

Scientists believed that stem cells were required to create beige fat, but the research shows that by inhibiting the production of a protein called KLF-15, white fat cells can be converted to beige fat cells. This finding offers promising insights into potential weight-loss treatments.

Feldman and his team discovered that KLF-15 controls the levels of the Adrb1 receptor, which plays a role in maintaining energy balance. Targeting this receptor with drugs could be a more effective approach for weight loss compared to current treatments.

By understanding the mechanisms behind beige fat cells, researchers hope to develop safer and more long-lasting weight-loss solutions for the future.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Effects of Lymphatic “Weight Loss Massage” on Your Body

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In the beauty industry, treatments to combat bloating and cellulite are in high demand. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Kim Kardashian, and Sean “Diddy” Combs are now turning to lymphatic drainage massage for help with these issues.

This type of massage targets the lymphatic system, which sets it apart from other massage therapies like Swedish, sports, deep tissue, and aromatherapy. Each type of massage offers different benefits, so choosing the right one depends on the results you want to achieve.

Understanding the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system is a crucial part of the body’s immune system, consisting of organs like the spleen, tonsils, bone marrow, and thymus. It works alongside the circulatory system by filtering out waste products and abnormal cells through lymph nodes. The lymph fluid helps maintain fluid balance, absorb fat, and defend against infections.

Who Benefits from Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

People with conditions like lymphedema, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, deep vein thrombosis, and cancer-related lymphatic buildup can benefit from lymphatic drainage massage. Athletes also find it useful for recovery and prevention, along with proper hydration, diet, exercise, and sleep.

Do You Need Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Signs of a malfunctioning lymphatic system include swelling in knees, ankles, and hands, as well as swollen lymph nodes when sick. After cancer treatment, lymphatic drainage massage can help prevent infections and support healing.

Can Lymphatic Drainage Help with Weight Loss?

Lymphatic drainage massage can aid in weight loss by improving circulation, reducing swelling, and eliminating toxins. While it may improve the appearance of cellulite, it cannot completely remove it. Weight loss post-massage is often due to losing excess fluids.

What to Expect from Lymphatic Drainage Massage

There are two types of lymphatic drainage massage: manual and simple, both overseen by qualified practitioners. The techniques involve gentle pressure to clear and absorb toxins, without causing pain or skin irritation.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New GLP-1 medications offer potential for weight loss and improved health

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Exciting developments are on the horizon in the world of obesity medications.

Pharmaceutical companies are racing to create new drugs, building on the success of existing medications like Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Wegovi, as well as Eli Lilly’s Maunjaro and Zepbound.

In addition to targeting diabetes and weight loss, some experimental drugs show promise in improving liver and heart function while reducing common side effects such as muscle loss seen with current treatments. Data on 27 GLP-1 drugs in development will be presented at the 2024 American Diabetes Association meeting in Orlando, Florida.

According to Marlon Pragnell, PhD, the ADA’s vice president of research and science, the pipeline now includes a variety of drug candidates in different stages of development, creating an exciting landscape of innovation.

While most of the data currently available comes from animal studies or early human trials, some drugs may be available in the United States over the counter within a few years, with FDA approval likely further down the line.

As the field of GLP-1 drugs continues to expand, there is hope for more affordable medications with fewer side effects to become available, offering new possibilities for patients.

Exploring Different Hormones for Weight Loss

GLP-1 drugs function by slowing down the digestive process and promoting a sense of fullness. In addition to GLP-1, emerging weight-loss drugs are examining the impact of another hormone called glucagon, which can mimic the effects of exercise.

One such drug, Pemvidutide from Maryland-based Altimmune, combines glucagon with GLP-1 to potentially enhance weight loss effects.

Results from a Phase 2 trial involving obese or overweight adults showed promising weight loss outcomes, paving the way for further research into the drug’s potential benefits.

Altimmune’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Scott Harris, highlighted the drug’s ability not only to aid in weight loss but also to provide additional health benefits for liver and heart function while preserving lean body mass.

Altimmune plans to move forward with Phase 3 trials and aims to introduce the drug in the U.S. by 2028.

Competition and Cost Considerations

Having a variety of weight-loss drugs available can help address shortages and potentially drive down costs over time. The high prices of current medications like Wegobee and Zepbound in the U.S. can pose financial challenges for many patients.

Different patients may respond differently to various treatments, as highlighted by Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford of Harvard Medical School. Having a range of options is crucial to tailor treatments to individual needs.

Stay Informed with the Latest News on Weight Loss Drugs

New developments in the pharmaceutical world present opportunities for improved treatment outcomes and potentially life-changing solutions for patients struggling with obesity.

For individuals like Danielle Griffin, who have not seen the desired results from current medications, the prospect of innovative drugs offers hope and excitement for the future.

Advancements in Metabolic Health

Companies like Eli Lilly are exploring new combinations of hormones to enhance the efficacy of weight-loss drugs. Retatortide, a new injectable medication from Lilly, shows promising results in weight loss and blood sugar control.

Additional studies on drugs like Mazduchid highlight the potential for improved metabolic status and weight loss outcomes, paving the way for new treatment options in the near future.

These ongoing developments underscore the dynamic landscape of obesity treatment, offering hope for a new generation of medications that could revolutionize the field and improve outcomes for patients.

The Future of Obesity Treatment

As research and development in the field of obesity medications continue to advance, there is optimism for more effective, affordable, and patient-friendly treatments to become available in the coming years.

With the potential for improved metabolic health, weight loss outcomes, and reduced side effects, the next wave of obesity treatments holds great promise for individuals struggling with obesity-related health issues.

The ongoing innovation in this field signifies a new era of possibilities in obesity treatment, offering hope for a healthier future for many individuals.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The unexpected impact of weight loss drugs on your mental wellbeing and cognitive function

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Kathy Schwartz had been sober for 10 years, but battling cravings was a daily struggle. “They were always in my head,” she said. But last June, the cravings subsided.

After being prescribed the weight-loss drug semaglutide, she not only lost nearly 30 kilos over 10 months, but also eliminated her desire for drinks or pills. “The cravings went away, and I didn’t realize that was a side effect,” Schwartz says. Amazingly, the depression and anxiety that had previously hit her in waves also subsided.

Schwartz isn’t the only one to have had this experience: New research is showing that semaglutide drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, as well as other diabetes and weight-loss drugs that mimic gut hormones released after eating, can have surprising benefits for brain and mental health.

Though it’s still early days, evidence suggests that these drugs could potentially be repurposed to treat depression, anxiety, addiction, and even certain eating disorders, as well as neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. What’s more, these benefits appear to be mediated not simply through weight loss, but through a direct effect on the brain.

The history of drugs like Ozempic dates back to the 1970s and 1980s, when researchers discovered them. A gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 has been discovered. When GLP-1 was injected into rodents in the lab, it was able to stimulate insulin secretion. Even more amazingly, these animals started to eat less and lose weight. We now know that this hormone leads to an increased feeling of fullness.

Semaglutide, etc.

Today, there are drugs that mimic…

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Impact of Lymphatic “Weight Loss Massage” on Your Body

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There is a growing trend in the beauty industry to seek treatments for bloating and cellulite, with lymphatic drainage massage becoming increasingly popular among A-list celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Kim Kardashian, and Sean “Diddy” Combs.

These celebrities have touted the fast health benefits and weight loss advantages of this treatment, but what exactly does lymphatic drainage massage do?

Lymphatic drainage massage is unique as it targets the lymphatic system, setting it apart from other massage therapies such as Swedish, sports, deep tissue, and aromatherapy. Each type of massage offers different benefits, so your choice depends on your desired results.

The lymphatic system is a crucial part of the body’s immune system, consisting of tissues, organs like the spleen and bone marrow, and a network of interconnected blood vessels and lymph nodes. These components work together to filter out waste and maintain fluid balance, producing white blood cells to fight infections.

People opt for lymphatic drainage massage to combat cellulite as the treatment aids the absorption of fat and excess fluids back into the bloodstream.

Lymphatic drainage massage can benefit those dealing with lymphedema, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, deep vein thrombosis, and lymphatic buildup post-cancer treatment. While athletes benefit from preventative and restorative sports massages, lymphatic drainage massage can aid recovery after injury or surgery.

If your lymphatic system is not functioning optimally, you may experience swelling and puffiness in various parts of the body. Lymphatic drainage massage can help alleviate these symptoms by improving circulation, reducing swelling, and eliminating toxins.

While lymphatic drainage massage may improve the appearance of cellulite, it cannot completely remove it. The treatment may lead to temporary weight loss due to the elimination of excess fluids.

During a lymphatic drainage massage, the therapist employs gentle pressure techniques that do not cause discomfort or skin redness. The massage focuses on clearing and absorbing, enhancing skin health.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Is the weight of electric cars causing strain on UK roads, bridges and car parks?

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Cars have weight issues. The example of the Mini, designed to save fuel during rationing, highlights this trend. The size of cars is increasing, especially with the surge in popularity of SUVs.

Electric cars may look similar to traditional cars for now, but the key difference is the heavy battery they carry.

In our series debunking electric vehicle myths, we address common misconceptions about EVs, including range anxiety, carbon emissions, mining, and air pollution. In this final episode, we investigate whether electric cars will be too heavy for our roads and infrastructure.

Claim

As roads have evolved over time, concerns have arisen about whether electric cars will strain infrastructure like roads, bridges, and parking lots due to the weight of their batteries.

Matthew Lin, a columnist for the Daily Telegraph, recently questioned the readiness of charging infrastructure and the capacity of roads and bridges to handle heavier vehicles.

Conservative MP Greg Knight urged the UK government to test the structural integrity of multi-storey car parks and bridges against the added weight of electric vehicles.

The Asphalt Industry Alliance warned that small roads could suffer more potholes, while the Daily Mail suggested that multi-storey car parks might be at risk of collapse due to the weight of electric vehicles.

Science

Electric cars can be quite heavy. For example, General Motors’ Hummer weighs over four tons, with a significant portion of that weight attributed to its battery pack. On the other hand, the Tesla Model Y, a more affordable electric car, weighs 2 tons, still lighter than some traditional vehicles like the Range Rover or Ford F-150.

The Tesla Model Y weighs 2 tons, lighter than a Range Rover or Ford F-150. Photo: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

According to a transport and environment advocacy group, EVs are on average 300-400kg heavier than traditional vehicles. The weight of the battery increases by approximately 100kg for every 150km of range.

The increased weight of electric cars leads to more road wear and faster deterioration of roads. However, a study found that the wear is primarily caused by heavy vehicles like buses and trucks, rather than cars and motorcycles.

Road wear is primarily caused by heavy vehicles like buses, rather than cars or motorcycles. Photo: Joe Giddens/Pennsylvania

Regarding bridges, most in the UK can support vehicles weighing up to 7.5 tonnes, with a safety margin built into the design. There are no concerns about national highways, which are built to accommodate heavy goods vehicles.

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Are there any precautions?

There are limitations to the weight of electric vehicles, especially in older car parks. While newer facilities can accommodate heavier vehicles, older structures may require reinforcement to handle the increased weight.

Options for multi-storey car park owners include strengthening the building or reducing the number of cars on each floor, which can impact profits.

Regular inspections are essential for car park owners to ensure the structural integrity of their buildings amid the transition to heavier electric vehicles.

Governments could encourage smaller cars through policies such as taxes and parking fees. Photo: Christopher Thomond/The Guardian

It’s worth noting that advancements in battery technology may address the weight concerns of electric vehicles in the future. Continued progress in battery energy density could lead to lighter EVs in the long run.

Encouraging smaller cars through policy measures like taxes and fees can have additional benefits beyond reducing road wear, such as resource conservation, carbon emission reductions, and improved parking lot management.

While EVs are heavier than traditional vehicles, it’s unlikely that their weight will significantly impact road infrastructure. Concerns about weight should not overshadow the importance of transitioning to zero-emission vehicles.

Source: www.theguardian.com

New Weight Loss Drugs Could Drastically Reduce Obesity in the Next Few Decades

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Obesity has undergone a significant shift in how we perceive it in recent years. It was once seen as a personal lifestyle choice, but is now acknowledged as a complex disease affected by genetics, biology, psychosocial factors, and the environment. It is a prevalent condition affecting a large portion of the population.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 2 billion adults are overweight or obese and this number is rising rapidly across different income countries.

Obesity poses a major health risk as it increases the likelihood of developing diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, dementia, cancer, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and kidney failure.

Recent advancements in understanding obesity have revealed that the regulation of energy balance and eating behavior occurs in the brain, not the stomach. Scientists have identified numerous genes that impact weight regulation and predispose individuals to obesity. Additionally, maintaining weight loss is challenging due to the body’s natural responses, which slow metabolism and increase hunger hormones.

Efforts to find effective treatments for obesity have intensified, considering the stigma and discrimination individuals with obesity often face. Traditional methods such as surgery or lifestyle changes like diet and exercise have been common strategies for weight loss. However, these approaches come with risks, limitations, and costs.

Current weight loss drugs have not been very successful in achieving significant results. New gut hormone treatments known as incretins show promise in managing obesity by regulating appetite through the gut-brain axis. Drugs like semaglutide have demonstrated notable weight loss benefits and improved blood sugar levels, offering hope for effective obesity management in the future.

Despite the potential of new weight loss drugs, challenges like administration methods, cost, and long-term effectiveness need to be addressed. Developments in weight loss medications, including oral drugs like orforglyprone, are still in progress, suggesting a promising future for obesity treatment.

While weight loss pills offer a valuable tool, they should be part of a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle changes, psychological support, and addressing socio-economic factors influencing health inequalities. The future of obesity treatment looks promising with ongoing research and advancements in medical technology.

It’s crucial to recognize that a holistic approach, which combines different strategies tailored to individual needs, is essential in effectively addressing the complexities of obesity. By destigmatizing obesity and focusing on a well-rounded treatment plan, we can make significant strides in managing this chronic disease.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New experimental weight loss drug shows greater effectiveness than Ozempic

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Oral weight loss drug may help obese patients who hate needles

Kseniya Ovchinnikova/Getty Images

Based on early trial results reported on March 7, it appears the experimental pill may cause greater weight loss than existing injectable treatments such as Ozempic, Wigoby, and Munjaro.

The drug, called amicretin, reduced people’s weight by 13 percent in three months. This is more than double his amount observed at Ozempic and Wegoby specifically. “From the limited data we have, this approach seems a little more exciting,” he says. Daniel Drucker At the University of Toronto, Canada.

The results come from a three-month, placebo-controlled trial, so it’s too early to know how amicretin compares to other drugs in terms of long-term efficacy and safety. said Drucker, who was not involved in the trial but was consulted, as well as manufacturer Novo Nordisk and other drug companies.

The diabetes drug Ozempic and the weight loss drug Wegoby are two brand names for the compound semaglutide. They work by mimicking a gut hormone called GLP-1 that is normally released after meals. This makes a person feel full, reduces appetite, and stimulates the release of the blood sugar-regulating hormone insulin.

Semaglutide leads to a loss of about 15 percent of body weight when taken for a year, but after that the weight plateaus and the injections need to be continued for a long time or it tends to gradually come back.

Another weight loss injectable called Mounjaro, also known as Tirzepatide or Zepbound, was launched last year. It mimics GLP-1 and an additional intestinal hormone called GIP. Using Mounjaro, you seem to lose about 21 percent of your weight over the first year and five months of her life before your weight loss plateaus.

However, amicletin mimics GLP-1 and another hormone called amylin, and appears to be even more potent, at least during the first three months of treatment. Reuters reports that people who took amicletin lost 13 percent of their weight during this period, Nordisk announced today. Those who took the placebo pill had a 1% decrease. This is higher than Wegovy and Ozempic’s 6 percent and Munjaro’s equivalent figure of around 7.5 percent.

But we can only know for sure how the drugs will fare over the long term if they are compared under exactly the same circumstances in a single study, Drucker said. “This is not a head-to-head trial.”

Another caveat is that while drugs that act by mimicking GLP-1 have been used to treat type 2 diabetes for more than a decade and their safety profile is well understood, amylin mimetics That’s not the case.

Novo Nordisk also said: Amicretin’s side effects were similar to those of Wegoby, and tended to include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially when the dose was increased rapidly.

The availability in pill form could be a big advantage for people who don’t like injections, he says. Daniel Chancellor Global Pharmaceutical Business Analyst cytherine. “Oral medications are very attractive.”

In addition to these three drugs, other weight loss drugs that mimic other gut hormones are also in development.

topic:

  • Medical drugs /
  • weight loss

Source: www.newscientist.com

Labradors with a mutation that causes starvation tend to easily gain weight

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About a quarter of Labradors have a mutation in the POMC gene that induces starvation.

Charles Mann/Getty Images

Labradors and flat-coated retrievers, two dog breeds, may be more susceptible to being overweight because they carry mutations that cause them to feel hungry between meals and slow their metabolic rates. “It's a double whammy,” he says. Eleanor Laffan at Cambridge University.

mutations that affect genes called POMCwhich affects about a quarter of Labradors and two-thirds of flat-coated retrievers, but does not affect other breeds.

Discovered in 2016, it was found to alter pathways in the brain associated with weight regulation, but it was unclear exactly how it affected eating habits.

To find out, Laffan's team conducted a “boxed sausage” test on 87 pet Labradors. In this test, dogs were able to see and smell sausages in an impenetrable container. The Labrador dog, in which he had one copy of the mutation, continued to try to open the box much longer than the dog without it.

However, in another test in which dogs were given a can of food every 20 minutes until they ran out of food, all dogs ate the same amount of food, regardless of whether they had the genetic mutation or not. This shows that the mutation affects appetite in a specific way, by increasing hunger levels between meals, Laffan says.

The researchers also measured the resting metabolic rates of flat-coated retrievers while they slept and found that dogs with two copies of the mutation had metabolic rates that were about a quarter lower than other dogs.

Laffan said the effect would be expected to be the same in both breeds, but in a second experiment flat-coated retrievers were more likely to carry both of the mutations than Labradors. He wanted to find out.

Laffan said many other genes probably influence dog weight, just as they do in humans.

Dan O'Neill Researchers from the Royal College of Veterinary Medicine say owners of overweight dogs should avoid giving treats as a way to show affection and instead give their dogs other forms of attention. “You can also replace that snack with a walk,” he says.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Keto diet aids in sustaining weight loss post-Ozempic discontinuation

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Ketogenic diet may help prevent weight gain

Shutterstock / Brent Hofacker

Type 2 diabetics who have stopped taking weight loss drugs such as Ozempic or Wegovy can avoid regaining lost weight by adopting a ketogenic diet. This finding from a small study challenges the concept that people must take these drugs indefinitely to prevent unwanted weight gain.

Ozempic and Wegovy belong to a class of drugs called GLP-1 agonists, which reduce appetite and stimulate the release of insulin. These are commonly prescribed to help people with type 2 diabetes regulate their blood sugar and lose weight. However, the assumption was that people would have to continue taking the drug over a long period of time or they would regain the weight they had lost.

Shaminy Athinarayanan The woman and her colleagues at Virta Health, a US telemedicine company that treats type 2 diabetes, decided to test that assumption. Their inspiration to do so came from previous research showing that low-carbohydrate diets like the ketogenic diet help people with type 2 diabetes manage blood sugar levels and weight.

Researchers tracked the weight and blood sugar levels of 308 adults with type 2 diabetes living in the United States who received nutritional therapy at Virta Health. They were all using GLP-1 agonists at enrollment. Participants were advised to follow a ketogenic diet. They were instructed to eat less than 30 grams of carbohydrates each day, or less than 50 grams if vegan, and about 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight each day. They were encouraged to eat until they were full, regardless of calories. Health coaches and qualified medical professionals communicated virtually with participants as needed.

After 3 to 9 months, half of the participants stopped using the GLP-1 agonist. All participants continued on the ketogenic diet for an additional year. At this point, the researchers found no significant differences in body weight or blood sugar levels between the two groups. On average, participants who stopped taking GLP-1 agonists gained only about 1 kg. In contrast, those who continued taking the drug gained about 2 kg. Most participants in both groups had blood sugar levels below the diagnostic criteria for diabetes.

“This study suggests that continued use of GLP-1 agonists is not necessary for many people if: [they] Appropriate intervention is required,” says Athinarayanan. “You can stop. [these medications] Maintain weight and blood sugar levels safely and effectively. ”

It says this could be helpful for people who can’t take the drug due to shortages or side effects. priya jaisinghani At New York University Langone Health. But she says people should talk to their doctor before starting a low-carb diet, as there can be risks, especially for people with underlying health conditions like kidney disease or eating disorders. He also noted that the study was sponsored by Virta Health and had a small number of participants. So “this is not the be all and end all,” Jaisinghani said. “But it shows the difference that diet makes.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Supplements containing resistant starch could assist in weight loss

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Raw oats are a natural source of resistant starch

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Supplements containing resistant starch, a type of carbohydrate that takes time to digest, helped people moderately lose weight in a small trial.

Resistant starch is naturally found in beans, whole grains, raw oats, and green bananas, and is also formed when common starchy foods like potatoes, pasta, and rice cool after cooking.

Resistant starch comes in several different forms, but what they have in common is that the structure of the molecule means that it is not easily digested and absorbed in the small intestine.

Therefore, the starch reaches further into the intestine, into the large intestine, where it is digested by bacteria. This means that starch is classified as a prebiotic.

Although some previous studies have suggested that this starch can help with weight loss, Lihuatei Researchers from the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine in China studied its effects on gut bacteria.

Researchers asked 37 overweight people to consume sachets of starch mixed with water twice a day before meals. For eight weeks they were given resistant starch, and for a further eight weeks they were given packets containing regular starch as a comparison. Participants were also provided with three balanced meals a day and various health indicators were measured.

After consuming resistant starch for eight weeks, people lost an average of 2.8 kilograms, while regular starch had no effect on weight. Resistant starch causes less rise in blood sugar levels after meals and is considered to be good for health.

Stool samples revealed that while people consumed resistant starch, the numbers of several bacterial species increased in their intestines. When these bacteria were transplanted into mice fed a high-fat diet, they appeared to have a weight-loss effect.

Rebecca McManamon A spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association said the trial was too small to be conclusive, but the results were plausible. “These outcomes are natural,” she says.

However, some people with irritable bowel syndrome may feel bloated and uncomfortable when they eat resistant starch, as the bacteria produce gas as they break down, she says.

topic:

  • carbohydrates/
  • weight loss

Source: www.newscientist.com

The reasons behind diet failures, as explained by a weight loss surgeon, and the key to successful eating.

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Perhaps many of us have attempted to reduce our waistline by watching our calorie intake or hitting the gym, only to find little success. Should we be doing things differently?

According to Dr. Andrew Jenkinson, a consultant bariatric surgeon at University College London Hospital and the author of “Why do we eat (overeating)?” and “How to eat (and still lose weight)”, losing weight has more to do with eating foods that manage levels of leptin hormone rather than focusing on calorie counting or exercise.

So what exactly is leptin, and how does it work? Dr. Jenkinson shared insights in a recent discussion with us about leptin, food consumption, and strategies to reduce appetite.

When it comes to the problem of obesity, Dr. Jenkinson views it as a major health and economic issue that could lead to the collapse of healthcare systems. He highlighted the prevalence of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint problems, and an increased risk for cancer.

Leptin, a hormone secreted by fat cells, regulates body weight by signaling the hypothalamus, the weight control center of the brain. However, certain foods can block leptin signals, such as sugar, refined carbohydrates, and processed foods, which increase insulin levels and block leptin.

Dr. Jenkinson emphasized that the concept of calories alone is not an effective approach to weight loss. Instead of focusing on calorie counting, he suggested avoiding foods that negatively impact insulin, which can shift the weight set point downward without significant effort.

In terms of exercise, Dr. Jenkinson explained that intense exercise can burn calories, but it can also lead to increased hunger and decreased metabolic rate if not balanced with calorie restriction. He recommended a combined approach of calorie restriction and intense exercise to achieve effective weight loss.

This interview with Dr. Andrew Jenkinson has been edited for clarity and length.

Dr. Andrew Jenkinson is a Consultant in Bariatric (Weight Loss) and General Surgery at University College London Hospital and the author of “Why do we eat (overeating)?” and “How to eat (and still lose weight).”

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New Weight Loss Drugs: Will Ozempic, Wegovy and Future Solutions Finally Conquer Obesity?

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There are TikTok hashtags with millions of followers, endless columns about celebrity waistlines, and a flurry of media coverage when test results come out. It is rare for a new drug to receive so much attention. However, it is even more rare for approved drugs to cause safe and rapid weight loss with minimal effort.

A year ago, most people had never heard of semaglutide. Semaglutide is a drug developed about 10 years ago under the brand name Ozempic to treat type 2 diabetes. It was later approved as a weight loss aid in the US in 2021 under the name Wegovy. With this drug, people can lose a whopping 15% of their body weight.

The impact of this new class of medicines could be unprecedented and could end the world's growing obesity epidemic. “I don’t think it’s fully sunk in yet,” he says. Jonathan Campbell At Duke University in North Carolina, he studies how these drugs affect the body.

First, Wegovy was just the beginning. The next generation of these drugs is in development and will be cheaper, easier to use, and, importantly, even more powerful. Additionally, new evidence suggests that Wegovy and its similar products are more effective when given at a younger age, so doctors are considering their use in teenagers and young children. This increases the possibility of switching from obesity treatment to prevention. “Over the past 40 years, we have seen the obesity landscape change dramatically,” Campbell says. “Now we may be at a tipping point where that goes backwards.”

Why is obesity on the rise?

The rise in obesity has been occurring since the 1970s…

Source: www.newscientist.com