Good things come in Small Packages
A Cochrane review has shown that smaller portions, packages and tableware leads to the consumption of less food. The review analysed 72 studies over a span of 35 years, and concluded that ‘successfully reducing the size, availability and appeal of larger-sized portions, packages and tableware contributes to meaningful reductions in quantities of food people select and consume’.
For many years portion sizes have been increasing, and now a normal portion is much larger than it used to be This study aimed to prove that not only do portion sizes, but also package sizes and tableware, make a huge difference to consumption. The analysis suggested the potential of cutting 500 calories a day for US citizens, through the use of smaller portions. The study authors hope that the findings will provide fresh impetus for open discussion on how reducing the size, availability and appeal of large servings can be achieved in the public and commercial sectors.
Read MoreFat responds to nerves activation
A breakthrough study has shown how fat is innervated and how direct stimulation can lead to fat breakdown. This comes after collaborative research from Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência in Portugal and the Rockefeller University in the USA. Almost 20 years ago the same team, at the Rockefeller Univesity, discovered leptin, the hormone that is released by fat cells, that tell the brain how much fat is in the body. Low levels increase appetite, whilst high levels increase fat breakdown. However, it was not known how the lipolytic effect of leptin was mediated.
The researchers managed to dissect the nerve fibres from mice that innervated adipocytes and assess the functional relevance of these neurones. They observed obvious fat breakdown and fat mass reduction on activation of the sympathetic neurones. This study has not only clarified how leptin has its lipolytic effect but suggests new therapeutic strategies for overcoming the central leptin resistance seen in obesity.
Read MoreCan chemicals cause obesity?
The Endocrine Society have warned that exposure to certain chemicals can lead to obesity and diabetes. The new publication builds on the Society’s 2009 report which examined the role of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) and human health. A study over 5 years was carried out in order to discover the potential role of EDCs in the development of obesity and diabetes. EDCs mimic, block and interfere with hormones within the body, this in turn alters the way cells within the body develop.
EDCs include dioxin chemicals produced during waste incineration, polychlorinated biphenyls, pesticides and bisphenol A (found in food can linings and receipts). Andrea Gore, Vacek Chair of Pharmacology at the University of Texas said ‘the evidence is more definitive than ever before – EDCs disrupt hormones in a manner that harms human health.’ The Society called for additional research to be carried out to discover more about the mechanisms involved; regulation to ensure that exposure to chemicals is minimised; creation of products that are safe; and education for the public and policy makers so that EDCs are kept out of food, water and the air.
Read MoreChildren with severe obesity at high cardiometabolic risk
A new study carried out in North Carolina has found that children with severe obesity are at a much higher risk of developing heart disease and diabetes than those of a normal weight. Dr Ashley Cockrell Skinner, the lead researcher said that the ‘findings show a direct correlation between higher levels of obesity and adverse cardiometabolic risk factors that can lead to future disease’.
Researchers analysed data from 8,579 overweight or obese children from 3 to 19 years of age, using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention growth charts. They found that the higher the severity of obesity, the higher the risks of a low HDL cholesterol level, high systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and high triglyceride and glycated haemoglobin levels. These are all well-known markers for cardiometabolic diseases. The researchers recommended that prevention and intervention strategies that look at reducing obesity in early life should receive much more attention, as it is too long to wait before the risk factors lead to disease. The paper highlights the need for increased attention to the issues that contribute to childhood obesity.
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