Study shows increase in obesity — and more health headlines

Medical Watch Digest for Oct 15

Study Shows Increase in Obesity

Some concerning numbers when it comes to obesity.

A new study indicates a dramatic increase in the percentage of U.S. adults who meet the new definition of obesity.

Mass General Brigham researchers found the newly expanded obesity definition which goes beyond BMI, a measure of height and weight and instead looks at body fat distribution.

By adding the more health centric obesity description, the prevalence of obesity is slated to increase from 40-percent to 70-percent.

 Experts say the rise is even more pronounced among older adults.

Obesity carries many co morbidities and that’s why health experts call it an epidemic that is getting worse.

Muscle Can Combat Obesity Related Illness

Building muscle can combat the health consequences of obesity.

People with excess body fat who build and keep muscle are less likely to develop obesity induced heart, liver or kidney damage or die early.

A new study published in the journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism say, muscle strength is a powerful protector from organ dysfunction.

And grip strength is a good way to measure muscle and build on it to lower the health risks for overweight people.

Vegan Diet & Benefits for Type 1 Diabetes

Adopting a vegan diet can offset the impact of diabetes and help people reduce their need for insulin.

People don’t need to limit carbohydrates or calories, they just need to eat a plant-based diet.

Choose fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds and exclude animal products including meat, dairy, eggs and honey.

According to the journal BMC Nutrition, people with Type 1 diabetes were able to reduce insulin use and costs by choosing a vegan diet.

The total dose of insulin after eating vegan foods decreased by 28-percent or 12 units per day.

The vegan diet also led to an average weight loss of 11 pounds, improved cholesterol levels and kidney function.