Link Between Low Birth Weights and Obesity Later in Life: Altering Hormone Levels Changes Cellular Development in the Brain
ScienceDaily (June 21, 2011) — In a study that increases the understanding of the link between fetal development and obesity later in life, researchers at Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center (LA BioMed) found altering the levels of two common hormones, insulin and leptin, in utero changes the cellular development in the region of the brain that regulates appetite.
Their study using fetal neural stem cells from animal models, which was published online by the journal, Endocrinology, found that altered levels of leptin or insulin may have marked effects on their offspring brain development. The researchers said these findings provide further clues to the causes of obesity.
With more than 60% of American adults overweight and more than one in five obese, researchers are closely examining the causes. Obesity is a serious health concern for children and adolescents, as well. About 17% of children and adolescents ages 2-19 years are obese. In the past, Type 2 diabetes occurred mostly in middle-aged people. Today, this type of diabetes is seen in 11% of children and adolescents.
Latest News & Articles
- Obesity a Major Cause of Early Death in Women: Study
- NHS faces 'diabetes time bomb'
- Obesity 'is higher among non-smoking women'
- How does a baby get to be obese?
- Dietician Suggests Child Obesity Starts in the Womb
- Pediatrician group urges ban on junk food ads
- Soluble Fiber Strikes a Blow to Belly Fat
- Can Soda Tax Curb Obesity? Surprising Reason Why Soda Tax to Reduce Obesity Won't Work
- Calories, Not Protein or Carbs, Are Key to Weight Loss: Study
- Diabetes rate 'doubles' - Imperial College and Harvard research suggests
- Weight Loss Surgery May Cut Inflammation, Disease Risk
- 10 exercise myths that won't go away
- Weight Loss Surgery May Cut Inflammation, Disease Risk
- Policies That Promote Healthy Eating, Activity and Sleep Are Needed to Curb Obesity in Infants, Toddlers and Preschoolers
- Visit Full News Page
Highest Reviewed Diet
Jillian Michaels- This impressive online weight loss program was designed by the world-class fitness trainer from the popular TV show The Biggest Loser. The program focuses on what works in the long term: motivation to lose weight the right way and keep it off. Her inexpensive diet and exercise plan is personalized to your comfort level as you get in shape and lose weight. Jillian Michaels has created quite a buzz and she deserves it. Her program is free to try.
Click here to visit her website