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Diet, exercise, or both? Study finds best strategy for reducing belly fat…

Diet, exercise, or both? Study finds best strategy for reducing belly fat…

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This gets to the heart of a very common fitness goal. The short answer is that for a significant, lasting reduction of belly fat, combining diet and exercise is the undisputed champion.

However, let’s break down the science of why this is the case, and the specific roles that diet and exercise play.

The Verdict: Diet + Exercise is the Winner

Multiple studies, including a seminal one from Duke University, have clearly demonstrated that a combination of aerobic exercise and a controlled diet is the most effective strategy for reducing visceral fat (the dangerous belly fat deep inside your abdomen).

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the findings:

StrategyEffect on Belly Fat (Visceral Fat)
Diet OnlyGood reduction. Creates a calorie deficit, leading to overall fat loss, including from the belly.
Exercise OnlyModerate reduction. Effective, but often slower than diet for fat loss alone.
Diet + ExerciseBest and most significant reduction. The effects are synergistic, meaning they add up to more than the sum of their parts.

The “Why”: Understanding the Roles of Diet and Exercise

1. The Role of Diet: The Key to Unlocking Fat Stores

You cannot out-exercise a bad diet when it comes to fat loss. This is because of the simple math of a calorie Deficit.

  • Calorie Deficit: To lose fat, you must consume fewer calories than your body burns. Diet is the most efficient way to create this deficit.
  • Targeting Visceral Fat: When you create a sustained calorie deficit through diet, your body is forced to use stored energy. Visceral fat is often more “metabolically active” and can be mobilized for energy more readily than some subcutaneous fat (the fat under your skin), especially with the right hormonal environment.
  • Food Quality Matters: A diet high in protein (increases satiety, preserves muscle), fiber (from vegetables, fruits, whole grains), and healthy fats helps control hunger and stabilizes blood sugar, reducing the hormones that promote belly fat storage (like cortisol and insulin).

In short, Diet is the primary driver for creating the energy deficit needed to burn fat.

2. The Role of Exercise: The Turbocharger and Body Shaper

Exercise doesn’t just burn calories; it fundamentally changes your body’s composition and metabolism.

  • Aerobic Exercise (Cardio): Great for burning a high number of calories during the activity itself. It’s very effective at directly reducing visceral fat.
  • Resistance Training (Weight Lifting): This is the secret weapon. Muscle is a metabolically active tissue, meaning it burns calories even at rest. The more muscle you have, the higher your resting metabolic rate.
    • Prevents Muscle Loss: When you’re in a calorie deficit from dieting, your body may break down muscle for energy. Lifting weights signals your body to preserve muscle mass, ensuring that the weight you lose comes primarily from fat.
    • The “Afterburn” Effect: Intense exercise, especially strength training and HIIT, can keep your metabolism elevated for hours after your workout.

In short: Exercise ensures the weight you lose is fat, not muscle, and improves your metabolism for long-term leanness.

The Special Case of Belly Fat: Stress and Sleep

It’s crucial to understand that belly fat is particularly influenced by hormones, especially cortisol (the stress hormone). High stress and poor sleep can elevate cortisol levels, which directly encourage the storage of fat in the abdominal area.

Therefore, the most effective “belly fat reduction plan” also includes:

  • Stress Management: Practices like meditation, yoga, walking in nature, and adequate leisure time.
  • Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

Your Action Plan: The Best Strategy

  1. Start with Your Plate: Focus on creating a moderate calorie deficit. Eat whole, minimally processed foods: lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Reduce sugar, refined carbs, and ultra-processed foods.
  2. Incorporate Cardio: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio (like brisk walking, cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity cardio per week.
  3. Lift Weights: Include resistance training at least 2-3 times per week, targeting all major muscle groups.
  4. Manage Stress and Sleep: Make this a non-negotiable part of your routine. It is as important as your diet and workout.

Conclusion: Don’t choose between diet and exercise. Use them together. Think of diet as the key that unlocks the fat store, and exercise as the tool that ensures you’re burning the right type of fuel (fat) and building a body that keeps it off for good.

Reference:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/8-ways-to-lose-belly-fat-and-live-a-healthier-life
https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/taking-aim-at-belly-fat
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/20-tips-to-lose-belly-fat

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Which is better for losing weight – diet or exercise?

Which is better for losing weight – diet or exercise?

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Yes, for weight loss, diet generally matters more than exercise. While both play important roles, research and practical evidence show that controlling calorie intake is more effective for shedding pounds than increasing physical activity alone. Here’s why:

1. Caloric Deficit is Key

  • Weight loss occurs when you burn more calories than you consume (a caloric deficit).
  • It’s easier to reduce calorie intake by 500 calories/day (e.g., skipping a sugary drink and dessert) than to burn 500 calories through exercise (which might require 45–60 minutes of intense cardio).

2. Exercise Burns Fewer Calories Than People Think

  • A 30-minute run may burn ~250–400 calories, but that can be undone quickly by eating a small snack (e.g., a muffin or a handful of nuts).
  • Many people overestimate exercise’s calorie burn and compensate by eating more, negating the deficit.

3. Diet Directly Controls Fat Storage & Hormones

  • Foods high in refined carbs and sugars spike insulin, promoting fat storage.
  • Protein and fiber-rich diets improve satiety, reducing overall calorie intake.
  • Exercise alone doesn’t compensate for a poor diet’s metabolic effects (e.g., insulin resistance).

4. Exercise is Great, But Not Primarily for Weight Loss

  • Exercise supports weight maintenance, muscle retention, and overall health (heart, mood, metabolism).
  • However, without dietary changes, exercise alone often leads to minimal weight loss.

Practical Takeaways

  • Focus on whole, unprocessed foods (vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats) and portion control.
  • Combine diet with strength training & cardio to preserve muscle and boost metabolism.
  • Avoid liquid calories (soda, alcohol, sugary coffee) and mindless snacking.

While exercise is crucial for long-term health and fitness, you can’t out-exercise a bad diet. For significant weight loss, prioritize nutrition first, then use exercise to enhance results and maintain your progress.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/for-weight-loss-diet-may-matter-more-than-exercise

https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-which-is-better-for-losing-weight-diet-or-exercise-video

https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/exercise-vs-diet

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2 low-calorie days a week could aid weight loss, blood sugar control in diabetes

2 low-calorie days a week could aid weight loss, blood sugar control in diabetes

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Incorporating two low-calorie days per week (often referred to as intermittent fasting or the 5:2 diet) may help with weight loss and blood sugar control in people with diabetes or prediabetes, according to research. Here’s how it works and its potential benefits:

How It Works:

  • 5 Normal Days: Eat a balanced, healthy diet without strict calorie restrictions.
  • 2 Low-Calorie Days: Consume ~500-800 calories (varies by individual), focusing on high-protein, fiber-rich, and low-glycemic foods to stay full and maintain blood sugar stability.

Potential Benefits for Diabetes & Weight Loss:

  1. Improved Insulin Sensitivity – Fasting periods may help lower insulin resistance, aiding blood sugar control.
  2. Weight Loss – Calorie restriction promotes fat loss, which is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes.
  3. Lower Blood Glucose Levels – Some studies show reduced fasting glucose and HbA1c levels with intermittent fasting.
  4. Reduced Inflammation – May help decrease markers of inflammation linked to metabolic diseases.

Considerations & Precautions:

  • Not for Everyone: People with type 1 diabetes, a history of eating disorders, or those on insulin/medications should consult a doctor before trying this, as fasting can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
  • Hydration & Nutrient Balance: Stay hydrated and prioritize lean proteins, non-starchy veggies, and healthy fats on low-calorie days.
  • Monitor Blood Sugar: Frequent glucose checks are important to avoid dangerous drops or spikes.

Research Support:

  • A 2023 study in Diabetes Care found that intermittent fasting (including 5:2 diets) led to greater weight loss and HbA1c reductions compared to daily calorie restriction in type 2 diabetes patients.
  • Another 2021 meta-analysis in Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology suggested that intermittent fasting improved metabolic health in prediabetes and early diabetes.

The 5:2 approach may be a useful tool for weight loss and blood sugar management in some people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, but it should be personalized and medically supervised. Always consult a doctor or dietitian before making significant dietary changes, especially if taking diabetes medications.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/2-low-calorie-days-a-week-could-aid-weight-loss-blood-sugar-control-in-diabetes

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8756303

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250715043351.htm

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According to a study, Mediterranean and ketogenic diets may help people lose weight and reduce blood pressure.

According to a study, Mediterranean and ketogenic diets may help people lose weight and reduce blood pressure.

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A new study suggests that both the Mediterranean diet and keto (ketogenic) diet may support weight loss and lower blood pressure, though they work in different ways. Here’s what the research reveals:

Key Findings

  1. Weight Loss Benefits
    • Mediterranean Diet: Emphasizes whole foods (olive oil, fish, nuts, veggies, whole grains) and led to moderate, sustainable weight loss (~5-10% body weight over 6-12 months).
    • Keto Diet: Very low-carb, high-fat approach caused rapid initial weight loss (mostly water and fat), but long-term adherence was tougher.
  2. Blood Pressure Reduction
    • Mediterranean Diet: Linked to lower systolic/diastolic BP (by ~5-7 mmHg) due to high potassium, fiber, and healthy fats.
    • Keto Diet: Also showed BP improvements, likely from reduced insulin resistance and inflammation.
  3. Other Health Impacts
    • Mediterranean Diet: Improved cholesterol, heart health, and longevity.
    • Keto Diet: Beneficial for blood sugar control (Type 2 diabetes) but may raise LDL cholesterol in some.

Which Diet Is Better?

  • For long-term heart health & sustainability → Mediterranean diet (more flexible, nutrient-rich).
  • For quick metabolic benefits (e.g., prediabetes) → Short-term keto, then transition.

Practical Tips

  • Mediterranean: Swap butter for olive oil, eat fatty fish twice weekly, load up on veggies.
  • Keto: Focus on avocados, eggs, low-carb greens; monitor saturated fat intake.

Both diets can work, but the best choice depends on health goals, preferences, and adherence.

Reference:

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250526/Which-diet-lowers-blood-pressure-more-keto-or-Mediterranean.aspx

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12114320

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0531556523000426

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mediterranean-keto-diets-may-help-weight-loss-lower-blood-pressure-study

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/weight-loss

Lupus Signs, Symptoms, and Co-occuring Conditions

Lupus Signs, Symptoms, and Co-occuring Conditions

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Lupus affects everyone differently, but certain signs and symptoms are common. [A sign is a medical evidence your doctor finds during a physical exam, such as a specific rash; a symptom is a subjective indication of disease, such as joint stiffness or a headache.] In addition, other conditions, such as fibromyalgia, occur commonly in people with lupus but are not directly due to disease activity. These co-occurring conditions are known to doctors as “comorbidities.” Several signs, symptoms, and comorbidity of lupus are detailed below.

Fever
The average human body temperature is around 98.5°F, but many people run just above or below that mark. A temperature of 101°F is generally accepted as a fever. Many people with lupus experience reoccurring, low-grade temperatures that do not reach 101°. Such low-grade temperatures may signal oncoming illness or an approaching lupus flare. Fever can also signal inflammation or infection, so it is important to be aware of the patterns of your body and notify your physician of anything unusual.

Joint Stiffness
Many lupus patients experience joint stiffness, especially in the morning. People often find that taking warm showers helps to relieve this problem. If this habit does not offer comfort and joint stiffness prevents you from daily activity, be sure to speak with your doctor. He/she will examine you for any signs of joint swelling and can speak with you about medications that may ease some of this pain and inflammation, such as over-the-counter pain treatments and NSAIDs. Tenderness of a joint in known as arthralgia, and it is important that your doctor distinguish this from the arthritis (true swelling) that may accompany lupus.

If you experience a fever lasting a few days or fevers that come and go over a few days, you should take your temperature twice daily and keep a record. Certain trends may alert your doctor to specific processes occurring in your body. In addition, a fever of 101°F or more should be given medical attention. If you are taking steroid medications such as prednisone, be alert for any sign of infection, since steroids can suppress your immune system while also masking symptoms of infection. Immunosuppressive medications such as azathioprine, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate also suppress the immune system, so if you begin to feel ill when taking one of these medications, notify your doctor immediately.

Weight Changes / Weight Loss
Increased lupus activity can sometimes cause weight loss, and certain medications can cause loss of appetite. No matter what the cause of your weight loss, you should speak to your doctor to ensure that the loss does not indicate a more serious condition. If you experience a loss of appetite due to your medications, your doctor may suggest alternative medications or solutions to ease stomach discomfort.

Weight Gain
Other medications, such as corticosteroids, can cause weight gain. Therefore, you must speak to your doctor about maintaining a balanced diet while taking these medications. You may need to reduce your calorie consumption; your physician can refer you to a nutrition counselor if needed. Light to moderate exercise can also help you to maintain a healthy weight and cardiovascular system, while also boosting your mood. Please remember that it is very easy to gain weight, especially when taking steroids, but it is much more difficult to lose it. You must try to achieve a healthy weight because women with lupus between the ages of 35 and 44 are fifty times more likely to experience a heart attack than the average woman. In addition, maintaining a healthy weight helps to alleviate stress on your joints and keeps your organs working productively and efficiently.

Fatigue and Malaise
Ninety percent of people with lupus will experience general fatigue and malaise at some point during the disease. Some people find a short 1 ½ hour afternoon nap to be effective in reducing fatigue. However, exceeding this time frame might lead to problems sleeping at night. If you feel that you are tired throughout most of the day and that fatigue prevents you from engaging in daily activities, speak to your doctor. Fatigue accompanied by pain in certain parts of your body may be a sign of a treatable condition called fibromyalgia. Other fatigue-inducing conditions, such as anemia, low thyroid, and depression, can also be treated. If you and your doctor decide that your malaise is due solely to lupus, try to stay as active and mobile as possible during your daily routine. Often this can be difficult, but many people find that slightly pushing themselves to engage in light to moderate exercise actually increases their energy levels. However, you should never push yourself beyond reasonable discomfort.

Sjogren’s Syndrome
As many as 10% of people with lupus may experience a condition called Sjogren’s syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the glands that produce tears and saliva do not function correctly. Sjogren’s can also affect people who do not have lupus. People with Sjogren’s often experience dryness of the eyes, mouth, and vagina. They may also feel a gritty or sandy sensation in their eyes, especially in the morning. This dryness occurs because the immune system has begun to attack the moisture-producing glands of the eyes and mouth (the lacrimal and parotid glands, respectively), resulting in decreased tears and saliva.

You must speak to your doctor if you experience dryness of the eyes and mouth since the medications for these conditions must be taken regularly to prevent discomfort and permanent scarring (especially of the tear glands). The Schirmer’s test is usually performed to check for Sjogren’s and involves placing a small piece of litmus paper under the eyelid. Eye symptoms can be relieved by frequent use of Artificial Tears, and an eyedrop medication called Restasis is often used to prevent the worsening of Sjogren’s. Evoxac (or pilocarpine) can be used to increase both tear and saliva production, and certain lozenges (Numoisyn) can also be helpful for dry mouth.

Depression
Depression and anxiety are present in almost one-third of all people with lupus. Clinical depression is different than the passing pangs of sadness that can haunt all of us from time to time. Rather, clinical depression is a prolonged, unpleasant, and disabling condition. The hallmark characteristics of depression are feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, general sadness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. Depression also often involves crying spells, changes in appetite, nonrestful sleep, loss of self-esteem, inability to concentrate, decreased interest in the outside world, memory problems, and indecision. In addition, people who are depressed may suffer from certain physiologic signs, such as headaches, palpitations, loss of sexual drive, indigestion, and cramping. Patients are considered to be clinically depressed when they experience symptoms that last for several weeks and are enough to disrupt their daily lives. Patients suffering from depression also often experience a general slowing and clouding of mental functions, such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. This phenomenon is sometimes described as a “fog.” The cause of depression is not known; sometimes a genetic component predisposes an individual to the condition. Depression is rarely due to active lupus in the brain.

While clinical depression can be caused by the emotional drain of coping with a chronic medical condition and the sacrifices and adjustments that are required of the disease, it can also be induced by steroid medications (e.g., prednisone) and other physiological factors. You must speak with your doctor if you feel you are experiencing clinical depression because many people who are physically ill respond well to anti-depressant medications. In addition, your doctor may treat your depression in different ways depending on the cause.

Gastrointestinal Problems
Many people with lupus suffer from gastrointestinal problems, especially heartburn caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Peptic ulcers can also occur, often due to certain medications used in lupus treatment, including NSAIDs and steroids. Occasional heartburn or acid indigestion can be treated with an over-the-counter antacid, such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, or Tums. Your doctor may also include an antacid or another form of GI medication (a proton pump inhibitor, histamine2 blocker, or promotility agent) in your treatment regimen. Antacids are effective when used to treat occasional symptoms, but you should try to avoid heartburn and acid indigestion altogether by eating smaller meals, remaining upright after eating, and cutting down on caffeine. If heartburn and acid reflux persist (e.g., for more than two weeks), you should speak with your doctor, because your heartburn symptoms could indicate a larger problem.

Thyroid Problems
The thyroid is the gland in your neck associated with your metabolism the processes by which your body makes use of energy. Autoimmune thyroid disease is common in lupus. It is believed that about 6% of people with lupus have hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and about 1% have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). A thyroid gland that is functioning improperly can affect the function of organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and skin. Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain, fatigue, depression, moodiness, and dry hair and skin. Hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss, heart palpitations, tremors, and heat intolerance, and eventually lead to osteoporosis. Treatment for both underactive and overactive thyroid involves getting your body’s metabolism back to the normal rate. Hypothyroidism is usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Hyperthyroidism is treated with anti-thyroid medications or radioactive iodine.

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis (bone thinning) occurs when the bones lose calcium and other minerals that help keep them strong and compact. This condition can lead to fractures, bone pain, and shorter stature. Everyone is at risk for osteoporosis as they age, but women experience a greater risk of the condition after menopause. Studies have shown that people with lupus are at an increased risk for osteoporosis due to both the inflammation they experience with the disease and the use of prednisone.

Your bones are constantly being remodeled in a process that removes old bone cells and deposits new ones. In people with osteoporosis, the bones lose minerals faster than they can be regenerated. Medications called bisphosphonates (e.g., Actonel, Fosamax, Boniva, and Reclast) can be taken to help prevent your bones from losing calcium and other minerals by slowing or stopping the natural processes that dissolve bone tissue. In doing this, bisphosphonates help your bones remain strong and intact. If you have already developed osteoporosis, these medications may slow the thinning of your bones and help prevent bone fractures. In fact, studies have shown that bisphosphonates can lower your risk of fractured vertebrae bone segments that make up your spine by 50%. Similar studies demonstrate that these medications can lower the chance of breaking other bones by 30-49%. However, when bisphosphonates are unsuccessful, patients may need a daily injection of parathyroid hormone (Forteo) to build bone.

Weight loss is encouraged by a naturally occurring molecule that suppresses appetite.

Weight loss is encouraged by a naturally occurring molecule that suppresses appetite.

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Researchers from Stanford Medicine have discovered a naturally occurring molecule that functions similarly to semaglutide, commonly marketed as Ozempic, in terms of appetite suppression and weight loss. Interestingly, studies conducted on animals also revealed that it was effective without some of the negative effects of the medication, including nausea, constipation, and a marked loss of muscle mass.

The recently identified molecule, BRP, appears to provide a more focused method of body weight loss by activating distinct neurons in the brain and acting through a different but comparable metabolic pathway. In addition to the brain, semaglutide also targets receptors in the pancreas, gut, and other tissues. Because of this, Ozempic has a variety of effects, such as lowering blood sugar levels and slowing the passage of food through the digestive system. BRP, on the other hand, seems to have a specific effect on the hypothalamus, which regulates metabolism and appetite.

Without using artificial intelligence to sort through dozens of proteins in a class known as prohormones, the study would not have been feasible. Prohormones are physiologically inert molecules that become active when other proteins break them down into smaller molecules known as peptides. Some of these peptides then act as hormones to control intricate biological processes in the brain and other organs, such as energy metabolism.

Numerous functional peptide progeny can be produced by splitting each prohormone in different ways. However, it is challenging to separate peptide hormones which are comparatively uncommon from the biological soup of the far more common natural byproducts of protein processing and degradation using conventional protein isolation techniques. The prohormone convertase 1/3, which is known to play a role in human obesity, was the focus of the study. It separates prohormones at particular amino acid sequences. Glucagon-like peptide 1, or GLP-1, is one of the peptide products that control blood sugar and appetite; semaglutide functions by simulating GLP-1’s physiological effects. To find additional peptides involved in energy metabolism, the team looked to artificial intelligence.

Peptide predictor
The researchers created a computer algorithm they called Peptide Predictor to find common prohormone convertase cleavage sites in all 20,000 human protein-coding genes, eliminating the need to manually separate proteins and peptides from tissues and use methods like mass spectrometry to identify hundreds of thousands of peptides. They then concentrate on genes that encode proteins with four or more potential cleavage sites and that are secreted outside of the cell, which is a crucial feature of hormones. By doing this, the search was reduced to 373 prohormones, which is a manageable quantity to check for biological effects.

Prohormone convertase 1/3 was expected to produce 2,683 distinct peptides from the 373 proteins, according to Peptide Predictor. Coassolo and Svensson concentrated on sequences that the brain is probably biologically active. They tested 100 peptides, including GLP-1, for their capacity to stimulate neuronal cells cultured in a lab. The GLP-1 peptide, as anticipated, had a strong effect on the neurons, causing them to become three times more active than the control cells. However, a tiny peptide consisting of only 12 amino acids increased the cells’ activity ten times more than controls. Based on its parent prohormone, BPM/retinoic acid inducible neural specific 2, also known as BRINP2 (BRINP2-related-peptide), the researchers called this peptide BRP.

An intramuscular injection of BRP before feeding decreased food intake over the following hour by up to 50% in both animal models, according to the researchers’ testing of the drug’s effects on lean mice and minipigs, which more closely resemble human metabolism and eating patterns than mice do. Over 14 days, obese mice given daily injections of BRP lost an average of 3 grams, almost entirely as a result of fat loss, whereas control mice gained roughly 3 grams. Additionally, the mice showed enhanced insulin and glucose tolerance.

Behavioral studies of the pigs and mice revealed no differences in the fecal production, water intake, anxiety-like behavior, or movement of the treated animals. Additionally, additional research on brain and physiological activity revealed that BRP activates metabolic and neuronal pathways independently of those triggered by semaglutide or GLP-1. In addition to further deconstructing the mechanisms of action of BRP, the researchers aim to identify the cell-surface receptors that bind it. If the peptide is successful in controlling human body weight, they are also looking into ways to prolong its effects on the body so that a more convenient dosing schedule can be used.

According to Svensson, the dearth of efficient medications to treat obesity in people has existed for many years. The ability of semaglutide to reduce appetite and body weight is superior to anything we have tested previously. We are very interested in finding out if it works and is safe for people. The study included contributions from researchers at the University of British Columbia, the University of Minnesota, and the University of California, Berkeley.

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Beyond weight loss: Bariatric surgery may reduce cancer risk…

Beyond weight loss: Bariatric surgery may reduce cancer risk…

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You might not associate obesity with cancer when you think about it. Still, scientists have long surmised a connection between weight and some types of cancer. Among them are postmenopausal breast cancer, ovarian, colon, liver, pancreatic, and endometrial cancer, which combined account for 15 to 20 percent of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.

Cancer risk increases with obesity
Over one-third of American adults. S. are deemed obese if their body mass index (BMI) is thirty or greater. The body mass index (BMI) calculates body fat based on height and weight. The number of people with severe obesity, which is a BMI of 40 or higher, has increased significantly. A person’s chance of developing cancer rises by 10% if their BMI rises by even five points, per a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Obesity increases a person’s risk of cancer by two times compared to optimal weight. For instance, a BMI of greater than 40 is associated with a seven-fold increased risk of endometrial cancer. It seems that an elevated risk of cancer is largely attributed to excess weight, primarily in the form of body fat. Obesity triggers an increase in fat cells within the body. With the rise in the number of these fat cells, the body’s hormone release pattern alters. This shift typically boosts the production of pro-inflammatory hormones and estrogen. Over an extended period, this persistent inflammatory condition can induce harm to cells and their DNA, thereby enhancing the likelihood of specific types of cancers.

Researchers are examining the connection between chronic inflammation and body fat. Furthermore, diabetes and other chronic metabolic diseases can be brought on by hormones like estrogen and insulin resistance. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in three adults will have diabetes and related health issues by 2050.

Bariatric surgery and reduction of cancer risk link
More research is needed, but researchers think a decrease in inflammatory fat cells may lower the risk of cancer. Additionally, the amount that nonsurgical, or purposeful, weight loss reduces the risk of cancer is still unknown.
However, maintaining the weight loss for those who have done so through lifestyle modifications can be difficult. The body’s intricate neurohormonal systems prevent starvation, which makes it challenging to keep off weight loss.

Even when weighed against medications and intensive lifestyle therapy, bariatric or metabolic surgery is currently the most effective obesity treatment. Following surgery, patients usually lose 25 to 35 percent of their total body weight or 50 to 70 percent of their excess weight, and these weight losses are frequently maintained for years.

Continuing research
Numerous extensive investigations have been carried out to examine the connection between weight loss achieved through bariatric surgery and the decreased risk of cancer. A 2019 study published in the Annals of Surgery compared 66,000 individuals without bariatric surgery to over 22,000 who underwent the procedure. The study site, BMI, age, and sex of the participants were taken into consideration when matching them. In comparison to individuals who did not undergo bariatric surgery, statistical models were utilized to examine the cancer incidence up to ten years following the procedure.

Individuals who underwent bariatric surgery experienced a reduced risk of developing any form of cancer by 33% over the observation period, contrasting those who did not undergo such surgery. The findings were more substantial when the focus was on cancers linked to obesity.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2022 tracked 30,000 individuals, all of whom had a BMI higher than 35. The subjects were split up into two groups and matched according to age and gender. Approximately 5,000 patients in one group had bariatric surgery, while slightly over 25,000 patients in the other group had no surgery. A follow-up period of roughly six years was the median.

The follow-up data demonstrated a significant reduction in the risk of cancers related to obesity and other malignancies following bariatric surgery. Additionally, it showed that patients who had bariatric surgery had a lower rate of cancer-related mortality when compared to those who had not had the procedure.

More research is required to validate these findings as researchers continue to explore the reasons and mechanisms underlying the reduced risk of diabetes and cancer following bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery, however, holds promise for patients battling obesity as it may lower the risk of cancer and metabolic diseases like diabetes.

This new data regarding the advantages and efficacy of bariatric surgery may help you decide if you’re thinking about having it done. Talk about it further with your bariatric surgery team or primary care physician. M.D Maria Linnaus. is a bariatric surgeon at the Mayo Clinic in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

It seems that having excess body weight in the form of fat is what increases the risk of cancer. The body produces more fat cells when an individual is obese. Hormone release by the body varies with the number of these fat cells. Estrogen and pro-inflammatory hormones are generally elevated by these modifications. This persistent inflammatory condition raises the possibility of developing some cancers by damaging cells and their DNA.

More research is required to validate these findings as researchers continue to explore the reasons and mechanisms underlying the reduced risk of diabetes and cancer following bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery, however, holds promise for patients battling obesity as it may lower the risk of cancer and metabolic diseases like diabetes. This new data regarding the advantages and efficacy of bariatric surgery may help you decide if you’re thinking about having it done. Talk about it further with your bariatric surgery team or primary care physician.

References:
https://cancerblog.mayoclinic.org/2024/04/23/beyond-weight-loss-bariatric-surgery-may-reduce-cancer-risk/
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/bariatric-surgery-and-cancer-risk

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New weight loss pill Amycretin is more effective than Semaglutide

New weight loss pill Amycretin is more effective than Semaglutide

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The Danish company Novo Nordisk recently revealed the preliminary results of a phase 1 clinical trial, which suggests that amycretin, an experimental medication they developed to treat obesity, may significantly improve weight loss compared to Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide). The business has not yet disclosed when to publish the data in a peer-reviewed publication. Given that adults with type 2 diabetes are primarily prescribed Ozempic and Wegovy to help control their blood sugar levels, this may not come as a surprise. Even though all semaglutide medications seem to be linked to weight loss, only Wegovy has received FDA approval for long-term weight management in adults.

These drugs, which are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, function by imitating the actions of a hormone that aids in controlling hunger and blood sugar levels. According to preliminary findings, taking amycretin for three months reduced body weight by 13%. According to earlier studies, semaglutide reduced body weight by about 6% over a comparable period. Experts, however, have stressed the need for more comprehensive research to verify the long-term benefits and safety profile of amycretin. Despite these cautions, Novo Nordisk’s stock value surged by over 8% following the drug’s presentation at an investor meeting on March 7, 2024.

The surging interest in a new class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists has propelled Novo Nordisk to become the most valuable company in Europe, despite facing significant supply shortages due to high demand. Amycretin differentiates itself from semaglutide medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, and from Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro and Zepbound (tirazepide) by being administered orally as a pill rather than through a weekly injection.

The limited information available suggests this method could be quite promising, but it is important to note that much more data are required. This is because amycretin has yet to be evaluated against other medications in a direct comparison trial. At a recent investor event, a senior development executive from Novo Nordisk highlighted the potential for amycretin to match the effectiveness and safety profile of CagriSema, another GLP-1 agonist drug by the company, targeting amylin. The company anticipates the results of a study on an injectable version of amycretin to be released next year. Based on these findings, Novo Nordisk intends to initiate a comprehensive development program.

In an amycretin trial with sixteen subjects weighing an average of eighty-nine kilograms, the placebo group lost one percent of their body weight over twelve weeks. Research shows that GLP-1 agonist drugs can lower the risk of obesity-related cardiovascular diseases, but they also raise the risk of gastrointestinal problems. Patients must know that studies indicate most people who stop taking these medications end up gaining back most of the weight they have lost.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/new-weight-loss-pill-amycretin-more-effective-than-semaglutide-in-early-trial
https://qz.com/ozempic-weight-loss-pill-amycretin-novo-nordisk-1851326591
https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthart/2024/03/07/novo-nordisks-new-obesity-pill-beats-wegovy-in-early-trial/?sh=1bfdece9456e
https://www.sciencealert.com/experimental-weight-loss-pill-twice-as-effective-as-ozempic-trial-shows

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How To Loose Weight Naturally

How To Loose Weight Naturally

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It is advisable to lose weight gradually, according to several specialists. It will probably remain off longer. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, if you lose weight too quickly, you’ll lose water, muscle, and bone instead of fat. The adage “calories in, calories out” means that you must expend more calories than you consume through food and drink. However, as many individuals can attest to from personal experience, it’s not that easy.

You might believe that fasting can help you lose weight quickly. However, it is preferable to have a diet that you can follow over time and that fits with your lifestyle. If fasting is long-term safe, more study is required to determine this. The majority of studies on the effects of intermittent fasting were conducted on middle-aged, overweight adults. If it is safe for those who are older or younger or those who are at a healthy weight, more research is required.

When attempting to reduce weight, both proper nutrition and exercise are crucial. If your nutrition is out of balance, no amount of activity can help you lose weight. However, evidence indicates that whether you’re attempting to reduce weight or not, exercise has significant positive effects on your body and mind. Your body’s ability to convert calories into fuel, or metabolism, is important. Additionally, it’s harmful to limit calories too much. Your metabolism slows down, which can cause you to consume less nutrients.

You can accomplish this in a variety of ways without drastically reducing your calorie intake. You might reduce portions, calculate how many calories you consume on a daily basis, and cut down a little. You could also check food labels to determine how many calories are in each serving and drink more water to help you feel less hungry. To reduce weight, you don’t have to cut out any specific food groups, go vegan, or give up gluten. In fact, if it’s something you can maintain over time, you’re more likely to keep the weight off permanently. However, it does make sense to drastically reduce or eliminate empty calories. As an example. sweet foods There are frequently few nutrients but many calories in foods like cookies, cakes, sugar-sweetened beverages, and other things. Aim to consume added sugars at a rate of no more than 10% of your daily calories.

Consuming enough protein will keep your muscles strong. In addition to lean meat, chicken, fish, and dairy, there are vegetarian and vegan alternatives (nuts, beans, and soy are a few). Depending on your age, gender, and level of activity, you may require more or less protein. Also You might feel fuller and less like you’re on a diet by consuming little amounts of fat. Olive oil, salmon, and nuts and seeds are the healthier options. It may prevent hunger if you eat five to six times each day. Each of those mini-meals may have an equal number of calories, or you could make some larger than others. In order to avoid overeating, you must plan your quantities. Eliminating liquid calories like soda, juice, and alcohol is one simple approach to reduce weight quickly. Replace them with calorie-free beverages like black coffee, unsweetened tea, or lemon water.

Whatever approach you choose, you must prioritize healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein to maintain a balanced diet. However, there isn’t a single, universal healthy eating strategy. A excellent approach is to work with a dietician to create a plan that addresses your unique requirements. Additionally, it’s crucial to follow through with a healthy weight loss plan that you create. The tendency must continue over the long term in order to become healthy and maintain that state.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322345
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/managing-your-weight/tips-to-help-you-lose-weight/
https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-no-diet-weight-loss

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How does eating too much fructose cause obesity?

How does eating too much fructose cause obesity?

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In the United States, more than 40% of adults are obese, with approximately 10% having extreme obesity.

Obesity increases the chance of developing a variety of ailments, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and several malignancies.

An energy imbalance between calories consumed and calories burned is the primary cause of obesity.

Obesity, however, may result from more than just calorie intake—it may also result from the calories.

According to recent studies, the simple sugar fructose, which is present in many foods, may be the cause of obesity and other related health issues.

Around 13% of persons globally, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), are obese. Although obesity rates are rising in low-income nations, the majority are in wealthy nations.

According to National Institutes of Health (NIH) data, 42.4% of adults and 19.3% of children and adolescents in the United States were obese in 2017–18. Additionally, these figures are rising.

Obesity raises the risk of a number of illnesses. It is linked to a poor diet and an unbalanced energy intake, but it may also have a genetic component. These are listed by the NIH as follows:

What connection exists between fructose and obesity?

According to recent study, obesity may not just be caused by an energy imbalance; rather, the source of that energy may be what causes the illness.

According to the study, which was published in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, fructose may be the cause of obesity because of an evolutionary “survival switch” that makes people store energy from fructose rather than utilize it.

The study’s results were discussed by Dr. Eamon Laird, a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Limerick in Ireland who was not engaged in the study, he observed:

This is a highly intriguing theory, even though it is only a narrative overview and not a systematic meta-analysis of the available data. It is conceivable that our present energy-dense diets have altered an evolutionary pathway that was advantageous millions of years ago.

Fructose converts to energy reserves.

According to the study, metabolic diseases like obesity may have arisen as a result of overstimulation of an evolutionary-based biological reaction called the “survival switch,” which is meant to safeguard animals before a crisis like hibernation.

Contrary to glucose, which is used as immediate fuel, the researchers contend that fructose causes the body to conserve energy.

This is better for an animal going into long-term hibernation than for a person who has constant access to high-sugar diets.

This “survival switch” may be more detrimental than beneficial in areas where people have easy access to food. People develop fat reserves as a result of the constant availability of high-fructose foods, which causes obesity and related health issues.

Metabolic effects of fructose

What causes fructose to make the body store energy rather than use it?

Adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, is often utilised and swiftly replaced from nutritional intake or fat storage. ATP is the chemical that supplies energy to power all cell operations.

Fructose, on the other hand, lowers the amount of ATP present in cells and hinders the production of ATP.

A chain of chemical processes that stop the mitochondria of the cell from making more ATP and put them under oxidative stress are triggered when ATP levels fall low enough.

Fructose consumption increases appetite in addition to lowering ATP levels. Once deposited as fat, these extra calories. The ATP levels eventually rise once more, but the fat reserves are still there.

Repeated exposure to oxidative stress causes mitochondrial dysfunction to become persistent over time. The body of a mammal that is hibernating adjusts to the low ATP levels by lowering the resting metabolic rate.

Without reducing calorie consumption, this lower energy usage leads to weight increase in persons who still have access to plenty of food.

Dr. Laird concurred that this theory could help to explain the rise in obesity.

He said, “I agree it could be one component. But obesity and metabolic syndrome are complex conditions; there is seldom just one contributing cause. Lack of exercise, unhealthy eating habits, vitamin deficiencies, socioeconomic causes, and even risk factors related to one’s race and ethnicity are all significant risk factors.”

Therefore, even if fructose did affect obesity, it would only have a minor impact overall, he continued.

Dietary sources of fructose

Although fruit naturally includes fructose, which gives it its sweetness, a normal Western diet also contains a variety of additional sources of fructose.

The majority comes from table sugar, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), a sweetener manufactured from cornflour, and sucrose, a molecule composed of glucose and fructose chemically bound together.

Fructose can make up to 55% of HFCS. To transform the glucose in corn syrup into the sweeter-tasting fructose, manufacturers must add enzymes.

Since the fructose in HFCS is present as free molecules, it is absorbed more quickly than it is in table sugar.

HFCS is included in practically all processed foods and many other foods. They consist of:

  • sodas
  • fruit juices with added sugar
  • crackers
  • ready-made meals
  • salad dressings and condiments
  • a few pastries and bread.

According to the scientists, the growth in sugar consumption, particularly that found in processed foods, fructose-sweetened beverages, and carbohydrates with a high glycemic index (GI), is related to the global epidemics of obesity and diabetes.

Must you stay away from foods high in fructose?

Although he was not involved in the study, Dr. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon and medical director of the MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Centre at Orange Coast Medical Centre in Fountain Valley, California, stated that for people who are overweight or obese, “any source of sugar, including non-processed sugars, such as those found in fruits, can have a similar effect on the body.”

“We advise our patients to minimize all sources of sugar, including fruits,” the doctor added.

However, Dr. Laird cautioned that most people should not worry excessively about fruit’s sugar content: Most of us don’t consume enough fruits, despite the fact that doing so would benefit our overall health by providing fibre, vitamins, and minerals. The modest amounts of fruit we do consume would probably not amount to much.

However, he continued, “The main risk probably arises when the fructose is highly concentrated and added to other foods (these foods often contain high fat, high sugar, and low nutrition), which could result in an increased risk of obesity.”

So maybe avoid that processed snack since it’s probably laden with fructose to help lower your risk of becoming obese.

REFERENCES:

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