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Weight gain indicates a positive energy balance, with calorie intake exceeding expenditure. However, this fact of physics cannot inform causality. Potential pathways to obesity include a positive energy balance that drives weight gain or weight gain that drives the positive energy balance. Here, we propose an integrated model of obesity pathogenesis that incorporates both pathways.
The maintenance and regulation of body temperature in neonates is critical for survival. However, the mechanisms by which human neonates achieve body temperature control are unclear. Current evidence has demonstrated that infrared thermography is a suitable non-invasive technique that can be safely applied to human babies to investigate brown adipose tissue thermogenesis.
Nelson and colleagues compare whole body, skeletal muscle and white adipose tissue insulin resistance in inbred mouse strains fed a chow or a Western diet. They report large strain-related differences in diet-induced effects on weight gain and insulin action, and demonstrate that tissue-specific insulin sensitivity can be disentangled from systemic insulin resistance.
Diet is a major modifiable risk factor for noncommunicable diseases. However, studies are inconsistent on the associations between diet quality and education, income and food access. A new study brings together novel big data sources and highlights the need for strong action on the social determinants of health in order to improve population diets.
Exerkines are signalling moieties that are released in response to acute and/or chronic exercise that exert their effects through endocrine, paracrine and/or autocrine pathways. This Review summarizes the importance and current state of exerkine research, prevailing challenges and future directions.
Abnormal uterine bleeding affects many individuals who menstruate and can have a detrimental impact on physical and mental health. This Review discusses endometrial physiology and the causes underlying abnormal uterine bleeding (including heavy menstrual bleeding).
Intermittent fasting diets are increasingly popular alternatives to traditional weight loss methods; however, their efficacy and safety are currently unclear. This Review evaluates the current research on intermittent fasting and discusses the benefits and challenges of these diets.
