International journal of obesity : journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity
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The increasing prevalence of childhood obesity is a global problem. There are a variety of environmental factors that may be contributing to this increase. One such factor may be the increased consumption of soft drinks. ⋯ There is an association between obesity and consumption of soft drinks. Initiatives focusing on reducing the consumption of these drinks may help to prevent a further increase in childhood obesity.
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While obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is strongly related to obesity, few studies have examined polysomnographic (PSG) changes with major weight loss. We examined the effect of weight loss following laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) on the PSG changes in patients with severe OSA. In addition, we studied daytime sleepiness, the metabolic syndrome and quality of life (QOL). ⋯ Weight loss provides major improvement or resolution of OSA and CPAP requirements. It also reduces daytime sleepiness, and improves the metabolic syndrome and QOL. LAGB placement should be considered a broadly effective therapy for sleep apnea in the severely obese patient.
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The Third International Symposium on Obesity and Hypertension (ISOH'03) was held on 23-25, October 2003 at the Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine in Berlin-Buch, Germany. The meeting, which consisted largely of invited lectures, presented a state-of-the-art overview of the genetic and molecular mechanisms that link obesity and hypertension. ⋯ This paper briefly reviews the contents of the invited lectures presented at this meeting covering topics ranging from genetics, molecular mechanisms, pathophysiology, cardiovascular risk, to the management of patients with obesity-related hypertension. Stimulated by the continuing success of these Symposia, the organizers are currently planning to hold a Fourth International Symposium on Obesity and Hypertension (ISOH'05) in Berlin: a tentative date for this meeting has been set for 27-29, October 2005.
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To examine the antiobesity effect of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a green tea bioactive polyphenol in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity. ⋯ Dietary EGCG attenuated diet-induced body fat accretion in mice. EGCG apparently promoted fat oxidation, but its fat-reducing effect could be entirely explained by its effect in reducing diet digestibility.
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Morbid obesity (body mass index (BMI) > or =40 kg/m2) is associated with substantially increased morbidity and mortality from chronic health conditions and with poorer health-related quality of life; however, less is known about the impact of morbid obesity on healthcare expenditures. ⋯ The economic burden of morbid obesity among US adults is substantial. Further research is needed to identify interventions to reduce the incidence and prevalence of morbid obesity and improve the health and economic outcomes of morbidly obese adults.