Some interesting research has come down the pipe, although very new, could have great health benefits. It seems some researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC have made some discoveries that could be of great help to those subceptible to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. For quite some time scientist have suspected a link between weight gain and stress, but have been unable to find the proof. The researchers at Georgetown have information that believe the mechanism lies in neurotransmitters.
The researchers manipulated a neurotransmitter (neuropeptide Y or NPY) and the receptor (neuropeptide Y2 receptor or YR2) that it activates. NPY and YR2 work in two types of cell in fat tissue: endothelial cells that line blood vessels and fat cells. Stressors such as exposure to cold or aggression cause the body to the relase of NPY from sympathetic nerves, which is taken up by Y2R. This in turn causes the release of more NPY. This positive feedback effect is what leads to the growth of abdominal fat and metabolic syndrome. In addition, scientist were able to add fat selectively to areas of the body in mice by injecting those areas with NPY. The metabolic syndrome were prevented by injecting Y2R blocker in the abdominal fat. The blockers stopped the uptake of NPY and stopped the positive feedback cycle that was leading to the production of even more NPY.
The researchers are hopeful that this study will help millions who struggle metabolic syndrome.
Some more interesting information we read this week has to do with people choosing diets and the support they have. It seems that people who are on a diet with a group or with persons who keep them accountable lose more and keep off weight longer. Surprised? I bet not. The support of your health care professional, family, or a personal nutritionist/trainer might pull you through when you want to give up or cheat. Seems obvious, but then why don't we do the obvious all the time? For more information on the data that was collected see the medpagetoday link below.
Article inspired by and information take from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/healthnews.php?newsid=75768 and http://www.medpagetoday.com/PrimaryCare/DietNutrition/tb/6074