How marijuana contributes to weight loss — and a reduced risk of diabetes; researchers zero in on the first genes associated with postpartum depression; and ADHD in childhood may be linked to obesity later in life. These were the stories making health news this week; for more, visit TIME Health & Family.
Obesity
Marijuana: The Next Diabetes Drug?
Toking up may help marijuana users to stay slim and lower their risk of developing diabetes, according to the latest study, which suggests that cannabis compounds may help in controlling blood sugar.
Not Overweight? You’re Not Welcome at this Gym
If you live in Chicago or Dallas and have a few pounds to lose, you might spot Downsize Fitness and think you’ll give this new gym a try. Forget it. This is a club that won’t take you as a member—unless you have at least …
ADHD May Prime Boys for Obesity
ADHD has been linked to struggles with drugs and alcohol, less schooling and more arrests, but the latest study shows it may also contribute to problems with weight as well.
The Week in Health: A New Test for Prostate Cancer and the Benefits of Licking Pacifiers Clean
Researchers announced the promising results of a new genetic test that can predict the most aggressive prostate cancers; New Jersey governor Chris Christie has gastric lap-band surgery, and moms who lick their babies’ pacifiers clean may be doing their kids’ immune systems a favor. These are some of the major stories making health news this week.
Gov. Chris Christie’s Weight-Loss Surgery Demystified
When New Jersey Governor Chris Christie quietly opted for weight-loss surgery in February, he chose the safest — but often least effective — procedure.
Patients who undergo gastric-band surgery — Lap-Band is the trade …
The Latest Tool for Tracking Obesity? Facebook Likes
Obesity is a big problem that needs big solutions, and Facebook may be coming to the rescue.
How Much Exercise Will It Take to Work Off a Burger? Menus May Soon Tell You
More restaurants display calorie counts on their menus, but what if they also informed you what it would take to burn off those calories?
Pushing Teens to Change Their Eating Habits Could Backfire
Parents who exert too much control over what their children eat may not be doing their adolescents any favors when it comes to controlling the youngsters’ weight, according to the latest study.
Study Identifies Four New Genetic Markers For Severe Childhood Obesity
Unhealthy food environments and sedentary lifestyles certainly contribute to obesity, but they can’t entirely explain weight gain. The latest research points to four new genes that could contribute to the most extreme cases of …
Stricter School Lunch Standards Lead To Lighter Kids
Complying with federal guidelines for healthy meals in schools helps children to stay leaner, according to the latest study on school lunches.
Is Self-Help the Secret to Reducing Childhood Obesity?
There is no shortage of strategies to lose weight, but which work best for children?
Can You Smell Obesity?
According to the latest research, it may be on your breath.
