Leptin and Weight Loss

Leptin Resistance and Weight Loss

August 8th, 2008

Recent research into leptin has revealed what is likely to be very important in the control of appetite, weight loss and the regulation of body weight. Advances in leptin research and its role in the control of obesity would lead to reductions in diabetes, coronary heart disease and many forms of cancer, all of which are increased in obesity.

American adults are overweight and more than 30 percent are obese. Currently 50 million Americans suffer from metabolic syndrome - a disease associated with obesity and encompassing coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes.

Leptin leapt into the headlines when it was identified in 1995 as a protein that triggers weight loss in mice.

Leptin (the Greek term for thin) is a hormone released by your fat cells. When you lose fat, leptin levels drop and when you gain fat, leptin levels rise.

Leptin affects our weight and our appetites. Levels of leptin rise just before a meal and fall when people are full. It is now known that leptin not only can affect the chemical responses that affect how hungry you are but also can affect the wiring of your brain. Read more »

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Green Tea for Weight Loss

August 7th, 2008

A new study shows that drinking green tea may result in weight loss. The study showed that people who drank a bottle of tea fortified with green tea extract supplements every day for three months lost more weight than those who drank a bottle of regular oolong tea.

Researchers say the results indicate that substances found in green tea known as catechins may trigger weight loss by stimulating the body to burn calories and decreasing body fat.

The findings appear in the January issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Black tea, oolong tea, and green tea come from the same Camellia sinensis plant. But unlike the other two varieties, green tea leaves are not fermented before steaming and drying. Read more »

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Healthy Eating Habits Can Be Achieved

August 7th, 2008

Healthy Eating Habits: Eating healthy can be a challenge with temptations lurking all around. Fast food restaurants and candy dispensers offer a quick fix for hunger that may not nourish our bodies.

A Kansas State University professor says healthier eating can be achieved with a little planning and three practical steps. March, National Nutrition Month, is a great time to get information and begin a healthier lifestyle.

“National Nutrition Month promotes healthful eating and provides practical nutrition guidance. This year’s theme, ‘Start Today for a Healthy Tomorrow,’ reflects the importance of continuing a healthy lifestyle throughout the year,” said Valentina Remig, registered dietitian and assistant professor of human nutrition.

The first step, knowing your needs, requires understanding what foods fit into your lifestyle, what foods you enjoy and planning in advance. Read more »

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