For decades studies have linked chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer to lifestyle factors – diet, weight and exercise.

Kiwis working in the retail and hospitality sectors are ‘rushed off their feet’, according to a study on the most active and sedate common professions.

A recent study commissioned by leading weight management company Jenny Craig analysed how many steps individuals in a variety of common professions took throughout a working day.

Researchers at the University of Otago, Christchurch, have developed a list of 49 ‘NEEDNT’ foods as part of a treatment research programme for obesity.

Around 100 staff members at the Waikato District Health Board were sent to Weight Watchers, a move that cost Health Waikato $41,580.

According to a study by the University of Sydney, a diet rich in protein in combination with dietitian sessions is more effective at helping young women lose weight.

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has found that taking the stairs instead of the elevator saves time, makes you fitter and contributes to weight loss.

A recent study has found that snacking in between breakfast and lunch might not be the best idea for women trying to lose weight.

A study of people who chew sugar-free chewing gum daily to lose weight has found that it may have no effect on weight loss.

An experimental drug that stops blood supply to fat cells has helped obese monkeys lose weight.

Watch out for those tasty rugby snacks says Jenny Craig consultant Natalie Russell. Rugby fans are potentially packing on the pounds by consuming 4,000 kilojoules per game.

An international study of overweight and obese adults comparing commercial weight loss programs with weight loss plans managed by local doctors or nurses found both groups lost weight, but participants in the commercial program lost significantly more weight.

An effective pill to prevent obese people regaining weight they have lost and research that will help us understand how diabetes can cause the heart to fail are just two of the areas targeted by research supported by the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC). The HRC has today announced a $74.56 million funding investment into health research. “New Zealand is experiencing a diabetes epidemic and its impact falls disproportionately on Māori and Pacific Island peoples,” says HRC Chief Executive, Dr Robin Olds. “This year, the HRC is funding research that challenges accepted beliefs about how diabetes damages the heart, and could require a fundamental rethinking of therapeutic strategies.”