Weight Management|New-Research-In-Obesity

iet and Weight Management

ew Research in Obesity

Researchers at UC Davis are studying how genes influence

the amount of arachidonic acid (a fatty acid important in the

synthesis of prostaglandins in the body) in the liver and muscle

cells of a special strain of rats called Zucker rats. They found that

rats that have inherited obese genes from both parents have

decreased levels of arachidonic acid in their muscles and liver.

These rats will become fat even when fed a very low calorie diet.

More importantly, researchers were able to reduce body weight

and body fat in these obese rats by feeding them a special fatty

acid supplement that increased arachidonic acid in their muscle

cells. Researchers also found decreased arachidonic acid in the

blood of obese humans.

They are studying the effectiveness of this special fatty acid

supplement in maintaining lost weight in previously obese

individuals. Trials using leptin injection in humans are underway,

and appear to be successful in patients who have

" leptin resistance".

Other hormones such as neuropeptide Y, cholecystokinin, and

glucagon like peptide 1 are also being actively explored as appetite

suppressants in the treatment of obesity.

Scientists have made tremendous strides in understanding

obesity and in improving the medication treatment of this

important disease. In time, better, safer, and more effective

obesity medications will be available. But currently there is still

no "magic cure" for obesity. The best and safest way to lose fat

and keep it off is through a commitment to a life long process of

proper diet and regular exercise. Medications should be considered

helpful adjuncts to diet and exercise for patients whose health risk

from obesity clearly outweigh the potential side effects of the

medications. Medications should be prescribed by doctors familiar

with the patients' conditions and with the use of the medications.

Medication(s) and other "herbal" preparations with unproven

effectiveness and safety should be avoided.

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