Watch: Meet the super-gran who saw 18st weight loss is now a bodybuilder

A grandmother whose size made it difficult to walk without a frame has seen an incredible 18st (114kg) weight loss and is now a super fit bodybuilder.

At her heaviest Dee Hodgson, 53, from Willenhall, West Midlands, weighed 28st 11 lbs (183kg) and struggled to squeeze into a dress size 34.

Her size left her in constant agony and doctors suspected she was suffering from fibromyalgia a long-term condition that causes pain all over the body.

The mum-of-four and gran-of-eight says her weight spiralled out of control after years of emotional eating of foods such as chocolates and sweets.

Believing her sugary diet wasn't helping her condition, Hodgson embarked on a "caveman diet" - eating only "natural" foods like fresh vegetables and high protein meats with little fat.

Within six months, she had lost 6st (38kg), without setting foot in a gym.

Dee Hodgson saw an incredible 18st weight loss after deciding to change her diet and lifestyle. (Dee Hodgson/SWNS)

After a year, she was 12st (76kg) lighter and, feeling fitter, decided to join her local fitness centre where she discovered a passion for exercise classes and working out.

Now a trim size 10-12, and weighing 11st 11lbs (75kg), Hodgson has lost a whopping 18st (114kg) and says she "feels like a completely different person".

"My weight got out of control," explains Hodgson, a mental health peer recovery worker.

"At first, I wasn't dieting to lose weight, I just wanted to feel better and to help ease the symptoms of my health conditions, but the pounds quickly fell off me and it gave me the motivation to keep going.

"I started going to the gym and fell in love with working out. Then I tried my hand at bodybuilding and absolutely loved it."

Read more: Beautician shares old and new meal plan that led to 7st weight loss

Dee Hodgson before her weight loss. (Dee Hodgson/SWNS)

Hodgson says her weight issues left her struggling with several health conditions, including type two diabetes.

Her diet consisted of processed food, and hearty family meals such as pastas or pizzas, and she hadn't exercised in years.

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"My lack of mobility was so limiting," she explains. "I was in pain all the time. I thought I was happy but I look back now and I realise I was depressed and in pain.

"My life was very limited and I was very dependent on people, which was hard as Im very independent. It was embarrassing for me."

Read more: Carol Vorderman highlights recent weight loss in bikini: 'I've dropped over a dress size'

The turning point came in 2016 when Hodgson realised she had to make a change to her lifestyle.

After Googling fibromyalgia she found that processed foods, additives and preservatives may exacerbate the symptoms.

So she decided to cut out these foods and switch them for more natural foods.

"My new diet was very basic and that made it easier to stick to," she explains.

"I didnt notice the weight loss at first, but when I lost around 6st, I realised that it was working and I might as well keep going.

"People started noticing the difference and I felt more mobile and healthier. I realised then that a different life really was achievable."

Hodgson says her weight loss has changed her life, pictured after losing the weight. (Dee Hodgson/SWNS)

The confidence Hodgson gained from losing weight inspired her to join a gym.

"I remember looking around and thinking I didnt belong, and I was so worried that people were judging me. But they really werent and I soon found my groove," she says.

Hodgson's newfound love for the gym quickly yielded results and she can now leg press 335kg, deadlift 80kg and bench press 46kg.

She's also due to compete in a bodybuilding competition in November in High Wycombe.

"Im in the transformation class, so its all about the journey," she explains.

"They will show a before picture before I come out on stage. Its about showcasing the way youve built your body.

"Im petrified but really excited! Ive always had body image issues but this is all part of my recovery.

"Its so far out of my comfort zone, Ill be out in a tiny bikini with all my scars and loose skin on show, but I hope that it will inspire others.

Read more: 12 expert-approved weight loss tips good for your body and mind

Having lost almost two thirds of her body weight, Hodgson says her weight loss has had an incredible impact on her health, both physical and mental.

"I have so much more energy, I'm so much happier it's completely changed my life," she says.

Its been so beneficial to my mental health, but Ive also seen such dramatic changes to my appearance I barely recognise myself."

Looking back on her journey, Hodgson feels grateful she decided to make the change.

My son, Will, 33, told me that he feared he would soon have to tell his children, my grandchildren, that I had died thats how bad my health had got," she explains.

I remember about a year into my journey, I was playing tag with my eldest granddaughter, and she turned around and said: Nanny, I didnt know that you can run.

And its moments like that, that make it all worthwhile.

Losing weight can be incredibly difficult, but I remember why Im doing it and it keeps me motivated."

Hodgson has now discovered a love of bodybuilding. (Dee Hodgson/SWNS)

As well as switching up her diet and lifestyle, Hodgson credits bodybuilding for changing her life.

"I now look at myself with pride," she says.

Ive gone from hating my reflection to really liking the person looking back at me. I finally feel proud of my body.

"I had to make dramatic changes to my lifestyle and undergo two surgeries to get rid of two stone of excess skin that I had after I lost a lot of weight very quickly.

"Its been a really challenging and emotional journey but its the best thing Ive ever done.

Im taking back the years that were stolen from me and owning my future.

Read more: Woman loses 13 stone without ditching carbs: 'I was a heart attack waiting to happen'

Breakfast - Cereal or toast

Lunch - Graze through the day on sandwiches, cakes, or whatever was convenient

Dinner - Hearty family meal like rich cheesy pasta, pizzas etc

Snacks - Evening snacks of crisps, biscuits, cakes

Drinks - Loads of creamy coffee, hot chocolate

Breakfast - Protein smoothie, egg white omelette with chicken or fish

Lunch - Green salad with chicken sausage, yogurt

Dinner - Turkey Bolognese

Snacks - Cereal bar, rice cakes

Drinks - Black coffee, lots of water, protein powder in water (like squash)

Additional reporting SWNS.

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Gran who was unable to walk unaided sees weight loss of 18st and is now a bodybuilder - Yahoo News

Last Updated: August 29, 2022, 15:15 IST

By eating oats daily, you can keep yourself away from suffering of obesity. (File Photo)

Oats are a whole grain with a number of nutritional benefits. It is considered to be a healthy and low-calorie breakfast and is a favourite of many. To add flavour and increase the nutritional value of the meal, fruits or vegetables can be added. Nowadays, all those who want to lose weight are adding oats to their diet.

The presence of beta-glucan in oats, a soluble fiber, reduces the appetite by increasing cholecystokinin- a hunger-fighting hormone. Soluble fibres help in breaking down the food faster and aid in digestion. Oats contain 2% of the daily recommended amount of calcium, 6% iron, and 1.5 grams of fat only.

It is low in calories, and a rich source of proteins, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It also prevents from storage of excess fat in the body.

Including oatmeal in your diet will benefit your health as it is considered to lower the risk of heart disease and colorectal cancer, according to Healthline.

Here are a few oat recipes that can help with weight loss

Read all the Latest Lifestyle News and Breaking News here

Read more here:
3 Lip-Smacking And Healthy Oats Recipes For Weight Loss - News18

It's no secret that salad is one of the best possible meal choices you can make while trying to lose weight. But experts say it's what you put on your salad that countsand certain dressings can rack up the calories quick. According to Johna Burdeos, RD, homemade dressings tend to be your best bet because you get to control how much oil, salt, and sugar goes into them. That said, when you're looking for convenience, there are plenty of store-bought salad dressings that can be just as effective for weight loss.

As a general rule, dressings containing mayo, buttermilk, sour cream, or egg yolk, tend to be higher in fat and calories (think: ranch and creamy Caesar).

"It's also best to avoid brands with long lists of preservatives since highly-processed foods have been associated with weight gain and other chronic diseases," says Sara Chatfield, MPH, RDN at Health Canal. "Instead, look for oil-based vinaigrettes made with oils high in healthy mono-unsaturated fatty acids and limited added sugars or preservatives."

By the waywhile fat-free dressings may seem like an ideal choice, Sheri Kasper, RDN, CEO and co-founder of FRESH Communications, doesn't recommend them. Often, these dressings are loaded with sodium, sugar, and artificial ingredients to compensate for the lack of fat and flavor.

With all that in mind, here are some low-cal, healthy salad dressings you can feel good about pouring. And while you're at it, avoid these Worst Salad Dressings on Store Shelves.

PER 2 TABLESPOONS: 35 calories, 3.5 g fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 200 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (1 g sugar), 1 g protein

"Cleveland Kitchen's salad dressings are phenomenal for weight loss because they are uniquely made with fermented veggies, so they pack a gut-healthy punch," says Kasper. "Emerging research suggests that gut health is linked to weight loss, so the fact that these dressings can offer gut support gives them a leg-up in the weight loss department."

This miso jalapeo dressing is loaded with flavor, which means a little goes a long way. That makes it even more remarkable that it only contains 35 calories, 1 gram of sugar, and 3.5 grams of fat per serving. It's also surprisingly versatile: try it in grain bowls, sandwiches, and even stir-fries.

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PER 2 TABLESPOONS: 120 calories, 12 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 0 mg cholesterol, 180 mg sodium, <1 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 0 g protein

This salad dressing is Whole30-approved, Paleo-friendly, and keto-certifiedbut that's not all. Jillian O'Neil, RD and founder of Eat.Train.Love.NYC, notes that she loves Primal Kitchen's dressings because they also double as marinades.

Made with wholesome ingredients like heart-healthy avocado oil, coconut aminos, spicy tarragon, and Dijon mustard, this dressing is as good for you as it tastes. It also contains no sugar, gluten, dairy, or soy.

PER 1 TABLESPOON: 80 calories, 9 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 0 mg cholesterol, 65 mg sodium, 0 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 0 g protein

This dressing gets O'Neil's seal of approvalnot only because it contains just six ingredients, but also because it's all organic, gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free. It happens to be vegan, Whole-30 approved, and keto-friendly, too.

But make no mistakethis lemon garlic dressing is super flavorful, thanks to the addition of mustard seed and spices. Light, citrusy, and refreshing, it's perfect for backyard barbecues and summer picnics.

PER 2 TABLESPOONS: 50 calories, 4.5 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 0 mg cholesterol, 280 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 0 g protein

With red bell peppers, sweet basil, and a dash of Romano cheese, this vinaigrette is bursting with authentic Northern Italian flavorit's perfect for drizzling onto pasta salads, wraps, and grilled vegetables alike.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

"You can easily find this one at major grocery stores," says Burdeos. "And it only contains 50 calories and no sugar per serving."

Did we mention there's also only 1 gram of carbs and 4.5 grams of fat per serving, too?

PER 2 TABLESPOONS: 100 calories, 10 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 0 mg cholesterol, 60 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 0 g protein

While this dressing may contain 10 grams of fat per serving (13% of your DV), Chatfield still names it a top pick since it's extremely low in saturated fat, sugar, sodium, and carbohydrates.

The main ingredients in this vinaigrette are simple: balsamic vinegar, expeller-pressed canola oil, honey, stone-ground mustard, and sea salt. Still, it boasts a surprisingly pungent taste and creamy texture, which means you don't need to use much to liven up your salad.

PER 2 TABLESPOONS: 70 calories, 7 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 20 mg sodium, 4 g carbs (2 g sugar), 0 g protein

This particular vinaigrette promises a range of health benefits, thanks to the addition of heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil, gut-friendly apple cider vinegar, and other nutritious ingredients like coconut liquid aminos and organic garlic.

One 2014 review in the European Journal of Nutrition even found that olive oil consumption may help to promote weight loss.

"It's low in added sugar, saturated fat, sodium, and preservatives, and only has 70 calories per serving," adds Chatfield.

The rest is here:
6 Best Salad Dressings for Weight Loss Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

The secret to weight loss could be in the brain.

Researchers have uncovered newly identified sensory neurons that ferry messages from fat tissue to the brain, according to Science Daily.

The discovery of these neurons suggests for the first time that your brain is actively surveying your fat, rather than just passively receiving messages about it, said Li Ye, Ph.D., the Abide-Vividion Chair in Chemistry and Chemical Biology and associate professor of neuroscience at Scripps Research, who was the co-senior authorof a new study.

The implications of this finding are profound.

The study, which was published in Nature, has found that messages to fat tissues can be streamlined by the brain, finding it can directly send messages to fat tissue and influence the bodys metabolic processes rather than responding to hormonal signals in the blood.

Led by a team from Scripps Research Institute, co-senior authors Ye and Ardem Patapoutian developed two new methods to look into the relationship between sensory neurons and fat tissue.

First, they used an imaging approach called HYBRiD that turned mouse tissues transparent and allowed them to track the paths of neurons through fat, or adipose tissue.

To see how neurons in adipose tissue worked, researchers used a second new technique, which they named ROOT, for retrograde vector optimized for organ tracing. This allowed them to selectively destroy small parts of sensory neurons in the adipose tissue to observe what happened.

Through this, researchers discovered that nearly half of these neurons didnt connect to the sympathetic nervous system the network of nerves that helps your body mobilize its fight-or-flight response but instead, Science Daily reported, to the dorsal root ganglia an area of the brain where all sensory neurons originate, which are responsible for firing and sending off signals to the rest of the nervous system about the information they have received.

When sensory neuron communication was silenced, the sympathetic nervous system began converting the white fat cells into brown fat, which can then burn calories through a process calledthermogenesis and speeds up the bodys fat-burning processes.

Before the study, researchers believed the nerves in fat belonged mostly to the sympathetic nervous system and switched on fat-burning pathways when the body was stressed or when exercising.

Now, they speculate two opposing nerve signals may work together with the sympathetic nervous system to switch the fat-burning processes on while the sensory neuron pathway turns the process off.

This tells us that theres not just a one-size-fits-all instruction that brain sends adipose tissue, explained Ye. Its more nuanced than that; these two types of neurons are acting like a gas pedal and a brake for burning fat.

In mammals, adipose tissue stores energy in the form of fat cells and releases those stores when the body needs energy, also controlling hormones and signaling molecules related to hunger and metabolism. Energy storage and signaling are often mixed up in diseases like diabetes, fatty liver disease, atherosclerosis and obesity.

The team doesnt yet know exactly what messages the sensory neurons convey to the brain from adipose tissue, only that the connections and communications are key for keeping fat healthy, explained Science Daily.

See the original post:
Your brain actually talks to your fat cells and that could be the secret to lasting weight loss - New York Post

Whether you like to go for a nice daily stroll or hit the gym hard, theres a chance youve been curious about the amount of calories various workouts burn. And the fact is, not only does the type of workout impact how many calories are burned, but so does the duration of exercise, your pace, intensity, and your age, height, and weight.

There are so many nuances to burning calories throughout the day, says Daniel Saltos, certified personal trainer and founder of Train with Danny. On average, we burn 1500 to 2000 calories a day by just going through our daily lives. But a 300-pound person who is taller is going to burn more calories than a 150-pound, shorter person burns because the more you weigh, the more energy it takes for your body to function.

A calorie is a unit of energy thats used to measure weight loss. In order to lose one pound, you have to burn 3,500 calories more than you take in for one pound of weight, the USDA says. Your ability to burn calories is impacted by your age, height, intensity of workout, and duration and pace of your workout.

Age is an important factor in determining calories burned. If youre 60 and less mobile, then youre not as agile and able to reach as high of an intensity during a workout than if you were an 18 year old, Saltos says. And intensity matters. How quickly you move between sets impacts your level of heart rate, which determines how much energy (calories) your body burns.

Duration and pace can also determine how many calories you burn during exercise. For instance, walking can burn up to 300 to 500 calories in an hour, whereas running can burn that same amount in about half of the time, Saltos explains. Youll also burn more calories by walking for a longer period of time, versus say 10 minutes.

Although the amount of calories each person will burn during any given day varies, there are still some ways you can increase the amount of energy you burn. Saltos recommends keeping an eye on your heart rate.

An elevated heart rate is your bodys physical response to pumping more blood. This requires more oxygen and energy, resulting in more calories burned, Saltos says. Increasing the intensity of your workout and reducing rest time in between reps can help keep your heart rate elevated. If you usually do 1 minute in between sets, try 30 to 45 seconds of rest, Saltos suggests.

You can also make your workouts work better with compound exercises. Compound movements use multiple muscle groups at once, Saltos says. If you do a bicep curl, this will only target a single muscle the biceps. A chin up, on the other hand, uses the biceps, back, and core muscles, so youll burn more calories.

You can level up any workout with the suggestions above, but the type of workout you choose can also naturally burn more calories. Running, swimming, high intensity interval training (HIIT), and cycling are just some of the exercises that give you more bang for your buck.

Running is one of the best calorie burners out there, Saltos says. An average person can burn anywhere from 500 to 1000 in one hour of running. Speed, pace, and endurance are all factors that can impact this range. But running uses every muscle group in the body, allowing you to burn more calories.

Swimming is a low-impact workout that also targets multiple muscle groups. In just 30 minutes of swimming, an average person can burn 200 to 300 calories, Saltos says. Swimming also improves cardiovascular health, builds endurance, and increases strengthall great reasons to want to hop in the water.

Narong Pimsook / EyeEm//Getty Images

Theres nothing like a nice evening bike ride when the weathers nice, and its actually a great workout for you as well. A long, steady bike ride can burn up to 500 to 700 calories in an hour, Saltos says. If you want to up the intensity with intervals of sprinting on a stationary bike for 20 seconds, and resting or slowing down for 10 seconds, then you can burn 500 to 700 calories in about half of that time, he notes.

If you want intensity, HIIT exercises provide exactly that. These workouts involve working hard in intervals, then resting. There are so many versions of HIIT, but traditional tabata involves pushing yourself for 20 seconds and resting for 10 seconds, for 8 rounds or 4 minutes, Saltos says. Because your heart rate will stay elevated, youll burn more calories in less time. On average, a person will burn 400 to 600 calories in 30 minutes, he says.

This childhood activity can actually do wonders for your health. Jumping rope is great for strengthening the lower and upper body while improving endurance and cardiovascular fitness, Saltos says. It also improves your coordination, because your mind has to work while you jump. Jumping rope can burn 600 to 1000 calories in an hour.

Strength training is one of the most efficient ways to burn more calories. One hour of strength training can burn 300 to 400 calories on average, but youll continue to burn more calories throughout the day because of the EPOC effect, Saltos says. The EPOC effect, also known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, represents an increase in metabolism that occurs after strength training linked to the consumption of oxygen that is required to help restore the muscles.

Mike Harrington//Getty Images

Not only is boxing a great way to release pent up energy, but it also helps improve balance, boost endurance, and strengthens the upper body and core. Boxing helps you get a good calorie burn, too, with the average person burning up 500 to 800 calories in an hour session, Saltos says.

The pushing and pulling motion of rowing machines targets multiple muscle groups including the arms, core, and back, helping you to burn more calories. An hour of rowing will burn 400 to 600 calories on average, Saltos says.

The old saying goes, any exercise is better than none at all. If you only have time for 10 minutes of exercise a day, it is better than 0 minutes a day. Everyone is fixated on calories burned during exercise, but the calories you burn during that one hour at the gym only account for 10 percent of the calories you burn in a day, Saltos says.

Look for opportunities throughout the day to optimize calories burned, like parking further away from the grocery store, standing while you work, or taking the stairs instead of elevator. This will make a huge difference in how many calories you burn, he says.

Currently an assistant editor at Prevention.com, Nicol is a Manhattan-based journalist who specializes in health, wellness, beauty, fashion, business, and lifestyle. Her work has appeared in Womens Health, Good Housekeeping, Womans Day, Houston Chronicle, Business Insider, INSIDER, Everyday Health, and more. When Nicol isn't writing, she loves trying new workout classes, testing out the latest face mask, and traveling. Follow her on Instagram for the latest on health, wellness, and lifestyle.

Excerpt from:
These 8 Exercises Burn the Most Calories for Weight Loss, According to Experts - Prevention Magazine

Camilla Gonzales longed for the days when she would strut the beaches of her native Brazil, showing off her toned shape. But the 32-year-old architecture student who stands 5-feet-5 from Queens had gained 50 pounds, hitting 196 in the midst of her divorce.

I used to have a nice, healthy body, but recently, every time I looked in the mirror I was sad, she told The Post. I tried medicine and crazy diets, but nothing worked. I was really suffering, to be honest, and I wanted a life change.

She started scouring the Internet for weight-loss operations. A lot of the surgeries sounded scary, but Gonzales was intrigued by Instagram posts about a simple-sounding procedure, called endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, which required no actual cutting.

A week later she had a consultation with Dr. Steven Batash, a gastroenterologist with his own Endoscopic Weight Loss Center in Forest Hills. Gonzales had her surgery in July, and has already dropped 26 pounds in six weeks.

Its only 30 days but there is a crazy difference, she said. Every day I weigh myself and Im a little less, and Ive started fitting in clothes. I can see myself again! I have friends who have seen me and are now scheduling the procedure for themselves.

Bariatric surgerywhere part of the stomach is surgically removed has long been an aggressive means of battling obesity, but Gonzales is one of many people who are now turning to a less invasive, non-surgical option. Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty requires no incisions or visible scar, and was just approved by the FDA in July for weight loss.

A doctor, generally a GI specialist, goes in with an endoscope and places stitches in the stomachs lining, reducing its capacity to store food. Dr. Batash is one of only a handful of doctors performing ESG, which costs about $11,000 out-of-pocket, because most insurance companies dont cover it.

The procedure is also called suture sculpt, and his patients include models, the rapper Fat Boy, and reality star Honey Boo Boo.

I dont cut or change blood supply; I fold the stomach like an accordion, making it shorter and more narrow, Dr. Batash told The Post. He goes in through a patients mouth with a standard endoscope, creates a bunch of tiny holes and fills them with suturing materials.

We decrease the stomach size by 70 to 80 percent and delay the food in the stomach by six to seven hours, so a persons appetite is suppressed, he said. Before, someone who needed 20 bites is now full after four or five bites and feels full for hours.

As for recovery, Gonzales said, I was on a strict liquid diet for a week, which was not easy. But after three days of resting, I could do everything except strenuous exercise.Youjust have to respectyour limits.

ESG also makes it possible for patients to be coy about what theyve had done.

Because there are no scars, some of my patients just tell people they lost weight on a liquid diet or cleanse, said Dr. Reem Sharaiha, the Director of Metabolic and Bariatric Endoscopy at Weill Cornell. She told The Post that she has seen positive results. I had a guy in college who lost over 100 pounds and it helped his studies as well as social life because he was more motivated in general, and a single mom who lost 80 pounds and now says she can be here for her teenage daughter.

Two radio personalities Alfredo Larrea and Nilda Rosaio at competing Latin stations in New York City were both inspired to do ESG after hearing on-air ads for Dr. Batash.

Alfredo Larrea, who works at LA-X96.3 under the name DJ Shula, had been diagnosed with severe diabetes, so the 32-year-old who is five-foot-seven and weighed 220 pounds in September 2020 called immediately. He is now 155 pounds, his blood pressure is down and his diabetes is under control.

After two days I felt no discomfort, as if I had nothing done, and I had almost no pain, he said. People that knew me before dont recognize me.

When he did a gig during prom season, the schools principal saw him outside and told him he couldnt leave until his parents picked him up. I look so much younger I was mistaken for a student!

Patients start off on a liquid diet, and then move on to purees before returning to regular food, but they have to be vigilant. After a few years, the stomach begins to stretch, the sutures loosen or fall out and, because the stomach hasnt been surgically reduced, patients may regain weight.

The mind doesnt understand that the stomach has shrunk so you really have to control the portions, said Michelle Mayboga, a 27-year-old student who works part-time in hospitality management and recently moved from Brooklyn to Miami. At her heaviest, Mayboga, who is 5-foot-3, had weighed 174; four years after surgery, she is happy at 125. I couldnt move before but now I am doing paddle boarding and other sports.

Though many in the medical community agree ESG is less risky than bariatric surgery and has potential to help obese patients get on the right track, some are skeptical of the long-term outcome.

The results have a wide spectrum; some people lose 50-60 pounds and others actually gain weight when you look at the two-year data, said Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, chief of bariatric surgery at NYU Langone. It has potential to be used as a weight-loss tool, but not if someone is going to look at it as a fad instead of a lifestyle change. We see a lot of the people who have gained weight back after 5 years.

Dr. Batash believes that some bariatric surgeons are bashing ESG because it cuts into their practice.

Surgeons see these procedures as a threat and love to talk us down, but there is this revolution in GI where we are doing more and more in a non-invasive way whichtakes away from what they do, he said.

Dr. Sharalha told The Post: I was one of the few in the country doing these in 2015, and it is durable up to five years. If you dont follow a good diet you can gain back some of the weight. I still refer the super obese for surgery, but [ESG] is very low risk compared to surgery.

Nilda Rosario, 49, who is a co-host at Mega 97.9, had her ESG in December 2020. After being thin most of her life, she had jumped to 180 pounds, an escalation she attributes to stress. Six months after the procedure, she was down to 138.

Ive heard that some people lose hair after doing this, or their skin becomes wrinkled from the rapid weight loss, but none of that happened to me, she said. I feel more sexy and I dress like I used to.

Rosario said her husband was supportive of her decision, joking, He said Ive become the perfect date because he spends half the amount on dinner.

Read more from the original source:
The non-invasive weight-loss procedure used by rappers, Honey Boo Boo - New York Post

Various epidemiological studies have shown that the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is increasing worldwide, and the major contributing factor to this trend is the rising prevalence of obesity. The worldwide estimated prevalence of GERD ranges from 15% to 25%. Western countries, including the United State of America, haveaGERD prevalence higher than in Asia, ranging from 10% to 30% [1,2]. Other than obesity,several environmental and lifestyle factors also contribute to this increasing trend, such as being overweight, smoking, and consumption of alcohol, caffeine, fat, and chocolate (these factors indirectly lead to obesity and overweight) [3].In addition, estrogen also has an important role in the development of GERD; one study suggested that pre-menopausal and women on hormone replacement therapy are noticed to have a higher incidence of GERD symptoms [4].Lifestyle modifications, including weight loss, elevation of the head ofbed, smoking cessation, and avoiding late evening meals, lead to the resolution of GERD symptoms[5].One ofthe previous cohortstudies concluded that, in obese individuals, having a low-carbohydrate diet results in the improvement of reflux symptoms[6].

Most of the studies have found a positive correlation between obesity and GERD. Obesity has been defined as having BMI >30 kg/m2 in most of these studies. Four previous cross-sectional studies confirmed a positive association between overweight or obesity and GERD symptoms in the US, UK, Norwegian, and Spanish populations. Two studies have shown a dose-response relationship[7]. The primary mechanism by which obesity promotes GERD isunclear;recent data suggests that obesity increases the intragastric pressure causing relaxation of the lower esophagealsphincter (LES)and reflux of gastroduodenalcontents causing the symptoms of heartburn,acid regurgitation, and eventually causing erosive esophagitis[8].Erosive esophagitis eventually causes Barrett's esophagus, thus increasing the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.Treatment of GERD includesconservative and medical therapies. Recent studies suggested that the long-term use of and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can cause several adverse effects.

A retrospective cohort study conducted by Bang and Park in 2018 concluded a positive association between a higher BMI and the development of GERD and erosive esophagitis. Conversely, this study also suggested that a decrease in the BMI can lead to the resolution of erosive esophagitis, and weight loss is a potentially effective treatment of GERD [3].Furthermore, it is noticed that in obese individuals, asymptomatic GERD is more common than symptomatic reflux disease[9].

Although many studies have shown that GERD is associated with obesity, not all studies have shown a positive association. For example, two extensive population-based studies from Sweden and Denmark found no association. Researchers assumed that the disparity in results might be due to the non-adjustment of confounding variables[7]. In addition, weight loss had an independent effect on reflux symptoms in an obese individual. Still,wecouldn't find sufficient data to suggest the positive impact of weight loss achieved through different methods, either with lifestyle modification or with surgical procedures (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or vertical band gastroplasty), on GERD symptoms[10].Thissystematicreview aims to assess non-pharmacological interventions for GERD treatment and the impact of weight loss on GERD in obese patients.

Study Design andSearch Strategy

This systematic review was designed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to improve reporting of this review [11]. We thoroughly searched through the following databases: PubMed, PubMed Central (PMC), Science Direct, and Google Scholar, using suitable keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms to extract all the relevant articles. Weused the Boolean scheme and MeSH strategy to form keywords. The MeSH strategy used was (Obesity/diet therapy"[Mesh] OR Obesity/drug therapy"[Mesh] OR Obesity/prevention and control"[Mesh]) AND (Gastroesophageal Reflux/diet therapy"[Majr] OR Gastroesophageal Reflux/drug therapy"[Majr] OR Gastroesophageal Reflux/prevention and control"[Majr] OR Gastroesophageal Reflux/therapy"[Majr]). For other databases, we used the following keywords: Obesity, Obesity AND GERD, Weight loss AND GERD, Obesity AND weight loss AND GERD. We removed duplicates by carefully scrutinizing the titles, and subsequently, we excluded irrelevant articles by screening the titles and abstract.

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

In this review, we included articles published in the English language, focusing on the adult population (18-65 years) and papers relevant to the research question. We excluded papers focusing on pediatric and geriatric populations and unpublished and grey literature.

Data Extraction

After we did the quality assessment, data extraction from the eligible papers included in the study was done. Two researchers did data selection and extraction (first and second authors). We reviewed the study design, relevance to our inclusion and exclusion criteria, intervention used, and outcomes measured in the selected paper.

Quality Assessment of the Studies

We used the Joanna Briggs Institute(JBI) critical appraisal checklist for cross-sectional studies and the Newcastle-Ottawa assessment tool for other observational studies (case-control, cohort). In addition, weused the assessment of multiple systematic reviews(AMSTAR) tool for the quality appraisal of the systematic reviews.

A total of 5922 papers were found after the database search. After removing 3379 duplicates,2543 articles remained. Then screening was done through titles, and we removed 2477 articles because of irrelevance, leaving 66 articles. Next, we checked the availability of full-text articles and pulled 43 out of 66 because of the unavailability of full-text articles, and a total of 23 articles remained. Then critical appraisal was done using different quality assessment tools, and a total of eight articles were found eligible to be included in our study after quality assessment.Out of eight papers, five were cross-sectional studies, three cohort studies, and one was a systematic review. The complete PRISMA flow diagram is well explained in Figure 1 [11].

We set the cut-off for bias at 20% or less to be included in this study (Table 1).

Out of five cross-sectional studies, four concluded that obese and overweight individuals have an increased risk of GERD. Obesity causes disintegration of LES and reflux of acidic gastric content in the esophagus, increasing the risk of erosive esophagitis. One cross-sectional study investigated the benefits of weight loss on GERD symptoms. All three cohort studies reported that weight loss could lead to the resolution of GERD and erosive esophagitis in obese patients. One systematic review investigated the impact of lifestyle intervention on GERD symptoms. That review also reported several adverse effects of the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors. The study concluded that because of some complications and the high costof PPIs, lifestyle interventions, especially weight loss, should be used as first-line management for GERD in obese individuals.

The reflux of gastroduodenal contents from the stomach into the esophagus due to any anatomical defect at the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) is defined as gastroesophageal reflux disease[12]. Over the last few decades, the prevalence of GERD has been increasing worldwide. Most of studies have found that this increase is due to the increase in the prevalence of obesity worldwide [10]. Obesity is an independent risk factor for developing GERD symptoms, and several studies have been conducted to find a positive association between BMI and GERD.Jacobsonet al. conducted a case-control study in 2006 and found that BMI is directly associated with GERD irrespective of whether the individual is with normal weight or overweight[16].Obesity has been associated with various comorbidities including diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases; however, gastrointestinal disorders including GERD, gall stones and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are more frequent in obese individuals [17,18]. Miliet al. conducted a study in 2014 and concluded that NAFLD is associated with obesityand the main treatment option for NAFLD would be weight reduction and life style modification[19].

Pathophysiology

The intra-abdominal pressure theory states that obesity in general and abdominal obesity increase intragastric pressure that causes mechanical stress on the gastroesophageal junction, causing transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation (TLOSR) and predisposition of the hiatus hernia, which further facilitates reflux. The dietary habit theory suggests that some nutritional habits may be the main reason for increasing the risk of obesity and eventually increasing GERD risk. Both approaches are based on assumptions [13]. Hiatus hernia in obese individuals causes disturbances in the integrity of GEJ, thus aggravating reflux [20]. Obesity may cause humoral changes such as changes in leptin and insulin levels and hormonal changes such as changes in estrogen levels, which indirectly cause GERD [7]. Not enough evidence supports these mechanisms, so further studies are required to explore them.

A study conducted by Wuet al. in 2007 concluded that abnormal relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LOS) might cause obesity-related GERD [14]. In this study, patients were divided into three groups: obese (BMI >30 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25-30), and average weight (BMI <25), according to the World Health Organization (WHO). During the postprandial period, esophageal manometry and pH monitoring were done using the standard method. It was noted that TLOSRrates were higher in obese and overweight subjects. It was speculated that obese patients tend to overeat, causing an increase in intragastric pressure and gastric distention, disrupting the integrity of the LOS and causing acid reflux. Esophageal manometry was done in obese individuals before bariatric surgery and most of the people were noted to have motility disorder; this could be another reason for GERD in overweight individuals [21].

Non-pharmacological Interventions

Although obesity is a significant independent risk factor for GERD, several other factors are also noted to play an essential role in GERD development. In a recent retrospective cohort study conducted by Bang and Park, it was stated that GERD is associated with some dietary habits, for example, late-night meals, consumption of alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, fat, and smoking [3]. The intake of citrus fruit is also noted toaggravatethe GERD symptoms [22]. Non-pharmacological interventions, including smoking cessation, avoiding late-night meals, reducing the consumption of alcohol and caffeine, and behavioral changes such as weight loss, can lead to the resolution of GERD symptoms [3,5]. Another study suggested that elevating the head of the bed in the supine position and lying on the left side helps to improve reflux symptoms [23]. Furthermore, regular physical activity was noted to have a positive effect on GERD symptoms [24,25].

Smoking Cessation

Most studies have shown a positive association between smoking and GERD symptoms. In a recent systematic review conducted by Ness-Jensen et al., it was revealed that smoking reduces the LOS pressure facilitating reflux [5]. Also, it causes decreased secretion of salivary bicarbonate, eventually decreasing acid buffering. Another study concluded that smoking cessation was associated with decreased reflux symptoms in normal weight individuals. However, in obese individuals, obesity was the leading cause of GERD, so smoking cessation didn't help much in that group [5].

Lifestyle Modification

Some studies showed a positive association between some dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and the development of GERD symptoms, but previous data supporting these facts are scarce. For example, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted with a small sample size (only 15 patients) showed that the elevation of the head of the bed decreased the time for which lower esophageal pH was <4 [5]. Another RCT demonstrated that an increased dietary fat intake causes more time without heartburn symptoms. A systematic review has shown that a high fiber intake and moderate physical activity can reduce GERD symptoms [5]. Arecent cohort study suggested that adjusting meal size and timing, i.e., avoiding late-night meals, is reported to be helpful for the management of GERD [3]. Although physical activity helps to improve the symptoms, but vigorous exercise after a meal can worsenthe condition. Post-dinner walking is recommended to relieve the reflux and heartburn, but eating before exercise should be avoided [26].

Weight Loss as a Management of GERD

Many observational and experimental studies confirmed the association between a high BMI and GERD. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 2018 to investigate whether a decreased BMI can resolve erosive esophagitis (EE) [3]. All the participants underwent upper GI endoscopyand EE was classified according to Los Angeles (LA) classification; the baseline BMI wasnoted and all patients were instructed to lose weight. During five-year follow-up periods, the EE resolution rate was higher in subjects who had a decrease in BMI >2 kg/m2;the researchers concluded that a significant weight loss is required for EE resolution because some of the patients who had a reduction in BMI <1 kg/m2 did not show any positive effects [3]. Weight loss reduces intragastric pressure and pressure on the gastroesophageal junction, thus reducing the reflux episodes [10]. An RCT of 17 patients reported normalization of the esophageal pH with weight loss in a follow-up period of four months.

A cross-sectional study conducted in 2006 suggested that weight loss is an effective treatment for GERD. Still, two other studies showed contradictory results, stating that a reduction in the BMI does not cause improvement in healing rates after proton pump inhibitor use [15]. Other than heartburn and acid regurgitation, some extraesophageal manifestations of GERD include cough, hoarseness, asthma, sore throat, sinusitis, and globus sensation. There is a significant and nonlinear relationship between a higher BMI and GERD with extraesophageal manifestations reported in a previous study conducted by Aslam et al. The study concluded that an increased BMI is significantly associated with esophageal acid exposure and these findings suggest the benefit of weight loss in the treatment of GERD [13].Fraser-Moodie et al. conducted a prospective cohort study in 2014 to assess an independent effect of weight loss on the improvement of GERD symptoms [12]. This study found that weight loss is the first line of management in treating GERD in overweight patients. Weight loss either achieved through lifestyle interventions or through bariatric surgery was noticed to have improvement in symptoms of GERD [27].

Individuals can use different strategies to lose weight, including physical activity, dietary modifications, and behavioral changes. Physical activity can include walking or some other exercises. In a prospective cohort study, overweight patients were followed for six months for weight loss. Weight loss was achieved through different conservative measures, such as increasing physical activity, some dietary modifications that reduced the daily calorie intake to 1200-1500 cal/day, and some behavioral changes, including goal-setting, self-monitoring, feedback, reinforcement, and social support. Most patients lost weight, and with a structured weight loss program, GERD symptoms were entirely resolved. In addition, a dose-response relationship was reported between weight loss and the resolution of GERD symptoms [10]. But not all obese patients in this study had a reduction in GERD symptoms after losing weight [5].

Why Is Weight Loss More Effective Than PPIs for GERD SymptomResolution in Obese Patients?

Treatment options for gastroesophageal reflux disease include conservative measures and medical treatment. Conservative measures, as already mentioned, include weight loss, if the patient is obese and overweight, the elevation of the bed head, avoiding late-night meals, and reducing the consumption of alcohol, fat, caffeine, and chocolate intake [3,5]. Medical treatment is commonly achieved through antacids, H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), and proton pump inhibitorsfor heartburn and acid regurgitation [28]. PPIs work by inhibiting the acid secretion from parietal cells. Additionally, if symptoms are non-responsive to medical treatment or complications havedeveloped, then surgical treatment is also recommended especially in the presence of hiatal hernia [29].

Initially, PPIs were mainly used for treating GERD symptoms, but recently, some studies suggested that the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors can cause some adverse effects. Now that awareness about the side effects of PPIs has increased, lifestyle modification is preferred. For example, withdrawal of PPIs induces reflux symptoms. Other adverse effects include hypergastrinemia and rebound acid secretion. In addition, due to increased gastric pH, the risk of enteric infection and community-acquired pneumonia is increased. There is also an increased risk of hip fractures because of malabsorption of calcium [5].

Another study suggested that obese individuals require a long-term use of H2RAs and antacids for heartburn and reflux symptoms, concluding that obese individual are not as responsive to medications for GERD. Lifestyle interventions, including weight loss and smoking cessation, having a low economic cost and no harmful side effects, should be preferred for GERD treatment. Although proton pump inhibitors positively impact the resolution of GERD symptoms and extensive data supports these positive results, very few RCTs and observational studies are available investigating the positive effects of lifestyle interventions on GERD.

Weight loss should be used as the first-line treatment for GERD in obese and overweight patients because of its low-cost effects, preventing complications of GERD, and improving the quality of life. It was estimated in a recent study that around 10 billion US dollars a year are spent on medical treatment of GERD, and that is considered a burden on the healthcare system [10]. However, there are a few limitations of our study. Extensive data is available reporting the positive association between obesity and GERD development, but studies suggesting the impact of weight loss on GERD are scarce. We could not find sufficient RCTs and observational studies suggesting that weight loss is an effective treatment for GERD.

Further studies, including clinical trials for evaluating the effect of weight loss on symptoms of reflux, are required. Two extensive studies reporting the impact of weight loss on GERD produced contradictory conclusions [15]. Another limitation is that our research does not apply to the pediatric and geriatric population; it is only limited to the adult population (18-65 years).

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Role of Non-pharmacological Interventions and Weight Loss in the Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Obese Individuals: A Systematic...

TOULOUSE, France Overweight patients tend to disagree with their doctors in a big way when it comes to health advice, according to a new study. Scientists report the more overweight the individual, the more likely they are to not see eye-to-eye with their healthcare provider on subjects including weight loss, exercise, and nutrition.

Its no secret that obesity is a major global health issue. The World Health Organization notes that obesity rates have nearly tripled between 1975 and 2016. Obviously, general practitioners and doctors play a big role in tackling this problem, but the relationship between practitioner and patient is a nuanced one.

Researchers say there needs to be a certain amount of mutual trust. The quality of information, mutual comprehension, and agreement between a doctor and their patient has a direct impact on that patients health outcomes, compliance, satisfaction, and overall confidence towards his or her doctor.

Notably, however, prior research reveals that doctors and patients often disagree when it comes to weight. Generally speaking, patients tend to blame factors outside of their control for excess weight gain, such as genetics or hormones. Doctors, on the other hand, emphasize the importance of making healthy lifestyle decisions (like proper nutrition and regular exercise).

At the end of the day, both genetic and behavioral factors influence a persons weight outcomes, but study authors explain this frequent difference of opinion between doctors and their patients can lead to a loss of trust and degrade doctor-patient interactions.

Study authors set out to analyze whether interactions between patients and their doctors varied in connection with patients BMI. The team measured these interactions based on the level of disagreement or agreement between the two parties regarding medical information and advice given during a consultation.

A total of 27 general practitioners and 585 patients from three regions in France took part in the project between September and October 2007. Each participant filled out surveys that collected data on general practitioners and patients perceptions pertaining to the advice given during a consultation.

Study authors then explored differences among the patients and doctors declarations in reference to actions, information, and advice given during the same visit, the patients health status, and the perceived quality of their relationship. Questions asked about weight loss included did your doctor advise you to lose weight during the consultation? (answered by patients) and did you advise this patient to lose weight during the consultation? (answered by doctors).

The team then used the fluctuations and differences in the answers to define any disagreements.

Overall, agreement between patients and their doctors turned out to be either fairly weak (20-40%) or moderate (40-60%) for most questions including those focusing on actions, information, advice, and patients health status. Agreement was even weaker (less than 20%) when it came to the perceived quality of the patient-doctor relationship.

Study authors noticed a clear trend: the more overweight a patient was, the more observed doctor-patient disagreement. These differences of opinion were especially apparent for doctors advice on weight and lifestyle issues. In comparison to other patients with normal BMI, overweight individuals were more likely to disagree with their doctor over advice on how to lose weight, eat healthier, and exercise more often.

An exploration of the patients representations and difficulties related to weight could be offered by the general practitioners as a basis for discussion and appropriate support, says lead study author Latitia Gimenez in a media release.

The study is published in the journal Family Practice.

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Obese patients more likely to argue with their doctors about losing weight - Study Finds

Poha has low calorie count and is also easy to digest along with being a great probiotic

Representational image of Poha dish. Wikipedia

What we eat truly has a great impact on our body weight. And, losing those extra kilos is definitely not an easy task.

However, breakfast is an important element of our entire weight loss journey. One reason is that it helps to start the day on a healthy note, motivating us to keep up the momentum.

Wondering if this is difficult?

Well, not for us as Indians as we all know India as a nation offers varied, and delicious cuisines. The fact that some of these can easily be termed as healthy breakfast options makes our weight loss journey a lot more easier. Low in calories and high in fiber is a combination that could be tried as you plan your diet.

In the world of healthy eating, fat is generally considered to be unhealthy. It is a general belief that consuming fat not only leads to weight gain but also leads to a number of diseases. So minimising fat consumption is a must if you really want to lose weight.

Here are some of the breakfast options that you should surely consider as you pledge to lose weight:

Poha: Poha has low calorie count and is also easy to digest along with being a great probiotic. Poha helps to achieve a healthy gut, which ensures that there is no unnecessary weight gain.

Yogurt: Creamy, delicious and satisfying, yogurt is an excellent addition to a weight loss diet. In particular, Greek yogurt consists of a high chunk of protein in every serving, making it a good option for losing weight.

Kiwis: High in vitamin C, vitamin K and potassium, the nutrient profile of Kiwis is very good. They are high in fibre too. Kiwis are believed to contain a particular type of fiber called pectin, which is believed to enhance the feelings of fullness and thus aids in weight loss.

Dalia: Dalia is an Indian superfood that is high in fibre. You may make it sweet and salty, according to your choice. But when consuming it to lose weight, its best to cook Dalia with vegetables.

Banana: High in fibre and low in calories, bananas are a great alternative to sugary meals that are high in calories. Having it in the morning can help you curb your cravings.

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5 Healthy breakfast options to help you lose weight - Firstpost

Beyond this, these weight-loss challenges erroneously assume that dropping a few pounds automatically leads to better health and thus better wellness overall. But the research just isnt there. In fact, long-term weight loss is not clearly associated with improvements in lab values such as blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, or triglycerides, nor is it reliably linked to reductions in premature death. What it is linked to? Increases in yo-yo dieting and weight cycling, which research has found does play a role in premature mortality.

There are many folks with larger bodies who check the boxes for things that are associated with being healthy, like eating nutrient-dense foods, getting in regular movement, managing stress, quitting smoking, and maintaining lab values within the normal range. We just cant assume that larger bodies are automatically unhealthy. Correlation does not equal causation, and illnesses and diseasesyes, even those typically associated with weight, like sleep apnea, diabetes, and heart diseaseoccur in people of all sizes.

We live in a society where its the norm to congratulate someone who has shed pounds without knowing what prompted the weight loss or what potentially unhealthy behaviorssay, restricting eating times for certain hours, cutting out foods or food groups, counting calories, or overexercisingmay have been in play there. Or if there were serious conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, depression, or cancer, that precipitated the weight loss instead. We tend to look to weight loss, or how a body looks, to give us information on whats going on inside, which just isnt accurate.

Weight-loss challenges miss the mark for improving "wellness" and health because they dont take into account all of the combination of factors that affect someones health. If we truly wanted to discuss health, we would be talking about equal and equitable health care, access to food, mental health, social connections, access to green spaces, and much more. We would focus less on what a body looks like and more on behaviors that can help promote actual health.

The best workplace wellness programs tend to offer opportunities for collaboration, socialization, and team-building, which can be helpful for employee morale and mental wellbeing. But for these programs to become a positive thing, employers need to focus them on actual things employees could do throughout their day, rather than simply sending them to the scale and hoping for a certain number to appear.

Healthy behaviors actually have a much greater impact on someones overall health and wellness, Brenna OMalley, RD, a dietitian based in San Francisco, tells SELF. With that in mind, here are some behaviors companies might focus on to promote wellness in their employees.

1. Encourage breaks to ease stress.

Stress can seriously mess not only with our mental health, but our overall health tooit can affect our digestive systems, suppress our immune systems, and interfere with sleep.

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Why Weight-Loss Challenges Have No Business in the Workplace - Self