Obesity Society recap day one...

I am attending the 2009 Obesity Society Conference in Washington D.C. There are a number of top-notch researchers presenting their work. The topics are wide ranging from cellular mechanisms that lead to obesity to population studies investigating correlative associations.

Some quick thoughts from day one:

1. Obesity is very complex. There are so many factors both environmental and genetic that contribute to weight gain. There is no one quick fix to obesity
2. A key factor is how we cope with stress. The research data regarding our ability to deal with stress and obesity is very compelling
3. Exercise matters. There data surrounding the health benefits regarding small incremental increases in physical activity are astounding. Some recommendations 150 minutes per week of moderate activity as a minimum for improved health. 250-300 minutes per week for weight loss. Start small and work up to these times.

The conference is very stimulating and hopefully will yield fruitful information for all.