New findings suggest that an enzyme in the brain known as P13 kinase might control the increased generation of body heat that helps burn off excess calories after we eat a high-fat meal. The increase in energy expenditure, called a thermogenic response, burns calories even in the absence of exercise, so understanding how it is regulated could aid efforts to combat obesity. Dr. Joel Elmquist, Professor of Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, and Pharmacology at the University of Texas Southwestern, was co-senior author of the study. Earlier research in humans had shown that acute exposure to too many calories causes the body to temporarily increase energy expenditure, burning more energy in an effort to use those excess calories.

(Source: Cell Metabolism, July 2010)

FAST FACT!

Did you know that even a modest weight loss, such as 5 to 10% of your total body weight, can produce health benefits?

Source: www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/calories/