obesity

Although obesity remains one of our most pressing global health concerns, new research reveals an interesting twist.

Most people taking drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy have shed significant pounds. But obesity experts say that roughly 20% of patients — as many as 1 in 5 — may not see robust results with the medications.

After developing Type 2 diabetes and having a heart attack in his 40s, Clearwater resident Fabricio Zambrano switched to a plant-based lifestyle.

A report shows that obesity and overweight residents cost Florida $30.1 billion in 2022. Randall Croom, a Stetson management associate professor, says that’s taking a toll on our workforce and more.

Cheaper versions of Wegovy and Zepbound touted on social media could be fleeting. Copies are legal now because the brand-name drugs are in short supply. But the drugmakers are boosting production.

University of Sydney researchers found that obese individuals can benefit more from exercise between 6 p.m. and midnight. One theory is that the body is better primed later in the day to manage blood sugar.

New research shows that the number of 12- to 25-year-olds who used the GLP-1 medications climbed from about 8,700 a month in 2020 to 60,000 a month in 2023.

The makers of Ozempic and Mounjaro charge charge around $1,000 a month for the drugs, and insurers are reluctant to pick up the tab. Often, low-income patients have to resort to less effective treatments.

Health officials say a preliminary review finds no connection between suicidal thoughts and a new class of diabetes and obesity drugs, but they cannot definitively rule out “a small risk may exist."

Experts say severe obesity at a very early age is nearly irreversible, and is strongly associated with chronic health problems and an early death.