With extra weight, kids’ hearts change shape

October 27, 2014

By Kathryn Doyle There are noticeable differences in the shape and function of hearts among obese and normal-weight adolescents, researchers say. “We do not know if (these changes) are clinically meaningful or necessarily dangerous,” said Dr. Norman Mangner of the...

Family meals could protect teens from obesity in adulthood

October 15, 2014

By Catherine Griffin A simple, family meal each day may reduce the risk of obesity in teens. Scientists have found that family meals during adolescence were protective for overweight and obesity in adulthood. In order to see whether family meals...

Inadequate sleep predicts risk of heart disease, diabetes in obese adolescents

May 16, 2014

Obese adolescents not getting enough sleep? A study in [the March 6 edition] the Journal of Pediatrics, shows they could be increasing their risk for developing diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Lack of sleep and obesity have been associated with...

Report: California teens drinking more sugary drinks

November 8, 2013

Although younger children in California are drinking less soda and other sugary beverages, teens in the state are actually drinking more, according to a report released Oct. 17. The research from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the...

Obese kids at four-times risk of high blood pressure

September 23, 2013

By Amir Khan Childhood obesity can lead to a host of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease and hypertension, and the risk may be worse than previously thought, according to preliminary new research being presented at the American Heart Association...

Many kids missing out on healthy lifestyle

July 1, 2013

Only half of American youths get the recommended amount of exercise and less than one-third eat the suggested amount of fruits and vegetables each day, according to a federal government study. Researchers surveyed nearly 10,000 students aged 11 to 16...