Obesity has reached epidemic proportions, both within the U.S. and throughout the world. Current research can shed light on what can be done about the problem, both from the standpoints of physical activity and nutrition.

The April 9, 2003 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association is dedicated to a discussion of sedentary behaviors, the risk of adult and pediatric obesity and diabetes, and the safety of low-carbohydrate diets. Read more from the Journal of the American Medical Association at http://www.ncpad.org/667/2822/2003-05-01.

Journal Highlights

Hu et al. (2003) in studying a middle-aged cohort of women, determined that light activities, including standing or walking around at home, as well as brisk walking, were associated with a lower risk of obesity and diabetes throughout 6 years of follow-up. These findings suggest that movement in general is important to combating obesity.

Heska et al. (2003) compared weight loss and health benefits achieved and maintained through self-help weight loss programs versus a structured commercial weight loss program and determined that over a 2 year period, the structured program (Weight Watchers) provided modest, but greater weight loss than the self-help program.

Another Article of Interest

"Parents Must Help Their Children Fight Obesity"
In the American Journal of Medicine and Sports for Primary Care Professionals, Haines et al. (2003) reported on the success of a healthy-eating and family-based physical activity program for overweight children. Findings conclude that family plays an instrumental role in helping children develop healthy eating and physical activity habits. (Haines DJ, Knutson D, and Duffy J. March/April 2003. Prescription for Childhood Obesity: Healthy Eating and Family-Based Physical Activity. American Journal of Medicine and Sports for Primary Care Professionals: 124-130).