Measuring Body Fat: Pros and Cons
Since the health risks of being overweight are mostly related to excess fat, many people think they should check how much body fat they have. Technology to estimate body fat levels has now become readily available.
Children and Milk
Some people seem to interpret the results of a new study incorrectly by suggesting that milk drinking drives the problem of overweight among American children. A closer look at the results affirms a weight-control message long-given to adults.
Is a Little Excess Weight a Problem?
Part of the uncertainty about the effects of moderate overweight revolves around the level of a person's fitness compared to their fatness. Some researchers suggest that physically fit people in this category have less health risks than inactive people.
Are You Supersizing Yourself with Fast Food?
The odds that frequently eating fast food meals can "supersize" you are real. But to prevent unwanted and unhealthy weight gain, is it enough to change your choice of food, drink, or portion sizes at fast food restaurants?
What's in that Weight Loss Supplement?
Americans spend billions of dollars each year on weight loss supplements. Although we wouldn't buy a car or a dinner without knowing some details, many who purchase these supplements have no idea what is in them, or what independent reports say about their safety and effectiveness.
The Risks of Weight-Control Surgery
Since almost two-thirds of our population is now overweight or obese, thoughts about surgical procedures to reduce weight frequently cross people's minds.
How to Handle Internal Voices
Even when some people dine alone, they have the company of four or more internal voices. These people don't suffer from mental illness. Their brains are merely replaying conflicting and possibly negative messages about what to eat and how much.
The Soft Drink Explosion Among Kids
The consumption of soft drinks by American youth is increasing. National dietary surveys show that carbonated soft drink consumption more than doubled in youths aged 6 to 17.
A Good Night's Rest for Your Weight
Do you need to lose weight? Turn off the television or computer an hour earlier and go to bed. A lack of sleep may make weight loss and weight control more difficult!
How Are Insulin Resistance, Pre-Diabetes, And Type 2 Diabetes Linked?
When the pancreas does not make enough insulin or the body is unable to use the insulin that is present, the cells cannot use glucose. Excess glucose builds up in the bloodstream, setting the stage for diabetes.
Waist versus Weight
All body fat is not the same. Researchers and health care professionals often measure overweight in pounds or with a calculation called the Body Mass Index.
Hopping Back on the Diet Wagon
Whether dieters reach their goal or barely lose a pound, the day almost always comes when they go off the diet. Although this break can mark the beginning of a downward spiral that sends a person right back to the starting point, studies now show it doesn't have to.
Low-Carb Confusion
Hundreds of newly available low-carb foods are actually making weight loss more difficult. Don’t let food package claims deceive you - a 2 gram carb protein bar could have 240 calories.
