In the past, the first law of thermodynamics was often used to explain the control of body weight. Simply put, if energy intake (food) exceeds energy expenditures (exercise/activity), then weight gain occurs. Conversely, reducing intake and increasing expenditures was believed to be the key to weight loss. For years, doctors and researchers believed this simple theory to be the answer. We now know, however, that other factors are involved. Some people can exercise religiously, reduce food intake and still not lose weight. And, of course, we all know people who can eat whatever they want and never gain a pound.

Read the rest of this entry

One of the most talked about consequences of obesity today is the development of diabetes. In fact researchers have coined a new term for this association: diabesity. According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control, diabetes has officially reached epidemic proportions. Over 17 million Americans have diabetes, which represents a 49 percent increase in the past decade!

Read the rest of this entry

Nowadays, we are faced with childhood obesity that slowly turns into an epidemic, as more and more kids have become affected with this problem. The researches done by the National Institutes of Health show that the number of children who are overweight is two times bigger than it was in the last two to three decades. It means that presently one child in five is overweight. Further, childhood obesity doesn’t refer only to a particular age, group or race – it’s mostly spread during youth and adolescence among both boys and girls, regardless of their race.

Read the rest of this entry