
Physical Activity in Overweight Girls: Implications for Reversing Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes...
Abdominal ObesityPhysical ActivityIn this randomized controlled trial, we will examine the effect of a 3-month exercise training (aerobic exercise versus resistance exercise) without calorie restriction on total and regional adiposity, ectopic fat in the liver and skeletal muscle, and risk of type 2 diabetes in overweight girls.

Effects of Caloric Restriction on Fetuin-A and Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Type 2 DiabetesOverweightThe aim of this randomized controlled study was to evaluate the effects of CR on circulating fetuin-A levels in obese humans with type 2 diabetes based on monitoring energy intake and energy expenditure by daily activity. Furthermore, the investigators examined the relationship between the changes of fetuin-A levels induced by CR and cardiovascular risk parameters including atherogenic lipid profile, visceral fat area (VFA), brachial artery endothelial function, and carotid IMT.

Magnesium Supplementation in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy to Overweight and Obese Individuals...
Gestational DiabetesObesityThis is a prospective, randomized, placebo controlled study with three parallel arms examining the effects of magnesium supplementation in the second trimester of pregnancy. Recent research has shown that supplemental magnesium can have beneficial effects, especially in overweight individuals. Not only do many people have a magnesium deficient diet, there is also evidence that magnesium can improve blood sugar levels. Due to the growing concern of obesity with pregnancy and its associated complications, such as diabetes and abnormal fetal growth, magnesium therapy could have novel and beneficial effects on pregnancy outcomes. In this study, 60 overweight and obese pregnant patients in their first trimester will be enrolled and randomized. The first group (A) will receive oral magnesium citrate (300mg elemental Magnesium), group B will receive dietary counseling about following a magnesium rich diet from a nutritionist, and group C will receive a placebo (control). Blood and urine specimens will be collected at three time points during the pregnancy to analyze changes in levels of metabolic markers, inflammatory markers, and protein expression profiles. Fetal and maternal complications of pregnancy will be noted, including maternal weight gain. At delivery, patients will have a placental cord blood specimen and placental biopsy collected for gene expression patterns and further analysis.

Healthy Eating for Reproductive Health (HERHealth)
Polycystic Ovarian SyndromeInfertility2 moreThis study will be a 6-month intervention that is examining how different dietary approached may be useful for women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) who are attempting pregnancy, particularly by measuring changes in weight. Participants will be randomly assigned to following one of two dietary approaches for weight loss: 1) a low-calorie approach to weight loss (reducing caloric intake by approximately 500 calories per day) or 2) a low-fat, low-glycemic index vegan diet. A vegan diet is one that does not contain any animal products (no meat, fish, poultry, eggs, or dairy) but emphasizes plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes/beans. In addition, this diet will be low-glycemic index, which means you will be asked to favor foods that don't cause a quick rise in blood sugar (for example, favoring oatmeal over cornflakes for breakfast). Participants will receive counseling and supporting materials on the dietary approach you are assigned to follow. Both diets are safe and have shown to be effective ways to assist with achieving a healthy weight. The investigators hypothesize that both groups will see improvements in weight and fertility with possible greater improvements seen among participants in the vegan group.

Effects of Weight Loss on Portal Pressure in Patients With Overweight/Obesity and Cirrhosis
Compensated CirrhosisObesityOverweight/obesity is increasing both in the general population and in patients with cirrhosis. In compensated patients with cirrhosis increased BMI is a risk factor for clinical decompensation independent of liver function and portal pressure. Nonetheless, patients with cirrhosis and obesity show a progressive increase in portal pressure, which might explain their increased risk of complications. Since obesity is a potentially modifiable risk factor, we designed this proof-of-concept study to assess the effects of weight loss (obtained by 4 months of diet and exercise) on portal pressure in patients with compensated cirrhosis and overweight/obesity.

Stress Reduction for Overweight or Obese Women Either With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or Without...
Polycystic Ovary SyndromeOverweight5 moreThe purpose of this study is to determine the effects of stress reduction on glucose, blood pressure, quality of life and overall health and well-being in overweight or obese women, either with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or without PCOS (non-PCOS). Stress reduction treatment sessions will include one or more of the following activities: breathing exercises, meditation, stretching exercises or health education activities.

An Interactive Web-based Intervention to Achieve Healthy Weight in Young Children
ChildObesity1 moreThe overall purpose of this study is to develop and implement an effective intervention program designed to prevent and treat obesity in young children.

Impact of Whey and Soy Protein Ingestion in Conjunction With Energy Restriction in Overweight/Obese...
ObesityIt is known that dieting (restricted energy intake) without resistance training leads to a reduced metabolic rate, and the loss of both fat and muscle mass. When exercise is not included in a period of restricted energy intake, the degree to which muscle mass is lost is highly dependent upon protein consumption. Whey protein is a high quality protein isolated from milk and is known to stimulate new protein synthesis for all proteins in your body. Previous research has established that the consumption of whey protein has been correlated with retaining muscle mass while stimulating fat loss. However, the mechanisms behind these findings is still unknown. The purpose of this study is to establish a mechanistic underpinning to the efficacy of whey protein versus soy protein and a carbohydrate control (maltodextrin), in promoting fat mass loss and lean mass retention during a period of short-term controlled dietary energy deficit (-750 kcalories/day).

The Effect of Sodium Alginate on Appetite Sensation
ObesityOverweightThe aim of the study is to investigate the effects of a low-calorie alginate containing fruit flavored beverage on appetite and body weight development.

Medifast 5 & 1 Plan
ObesityBody Weight3 moreThe purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan to a food-based, reduced-energy diet plan. The study will be conducted over 52 weeks, including a 26-week weight-loss phase and a 26-week weight-maintenance phase. 120 participants will be enrolled, with 60 randomized to the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan and 60 randomized to food-based, reduced-energy diet plan. Multiple measures will be performed at baseline, 26 weeks, and 52 weeks, including anthropometry, body composition, blood pressure, blood assays, and appetite sensations.