Obesity is one of the greatest risk factors for disease and death in our modern society. People with obesity are at a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and premature death. Therefore, the question has been raised –…

Two of the greatest strains on public health are obesity and cognitive disorders. There is a growing trend for overweight, obesity and cognitive conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, particularly in the middle-aged population. It’s known that obesity carries a higher…

One of the most challenging factors about weight loss is maintaining a significant loss over time. Researchers believe the answer lies in the habits of those who have successfully maintained weight loss over a long-term period.   Background Weight loss is more…

Often, diets focus on removing foods that can cause weight gain. Despite reducing calories, many people fail to achieve and maintain long-term weight loss with these diets. However, there is an increasing focus on an ‘enjoyment model’ – diets that add healthy…

Many people have found that diets and one-size-fits-all advice don’t work for them. But now, researchers are turning to programs tailored to individuals based on their genes as a potential solution to the global obesity problem. Background Previous research into weight loss…

Should health be a personal or a public responsibility? It’s a question for the ages, and one that inspires lively debate around issues like government funding for weight loss or stop smoking programs. Occasionally, policy makers float suggestions like a tax on…

You lead an active life, keeping fit thanks to Friday night football and weekend cycling sessions with your mates. You decide to start a family and life gets a whole lot busier. Gradually, your activity levels decline and your fitness takes a…

It seems there’s a new ‘superfood’ on the market every time we hit the shops. From quinoa to goji berries, nutrition scientists are excited about the dense nutrient content of certain grains, seeds and vegetables, many of which are recent additions to…

Adolescents are a prime target market for junk food advertising. With obesity on the rise, policy makers occasionally float the notion of legislating against ads for high calorie foods. But does showing a young person pictures of specific foods actually prompt them…

If this is the first time you’ve heard the term ‘omics’, take note. You’re about to hear a lot more about this new field of study, which is set to revolutionise our understanding of human health. Omic technologies dig deeper than ever…