Fat substitutes may backfire for people looking to lose weight, and instead set off a chain reaction of metabolic and hormonal responses that lead to obesity, new research shows. Read the full story

In the latest episode of WLS Journeys, host Yvonne McCarthy talks with Monica Martin, a hurricane Katrina victim who is not much of a victim after all. Monica describes her emotional roller coaster when she almost lost her son during her pregnancy due to her extreme weight. She also explains the setback of her surgery due to the loss of her home to Katrina. Monica reveals how her own harsh criticisms of herself affected her, and how she overcame those criticisms to achieve true happiness. Click the player below to see Monica’s inspirational story full of trials and victories.

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy – also referred to as the VSG, gastric sleeve, or “Sleeve” – is performed far less frequently than the gastric bypass, but has become increasingly common in recent years and shows similar initial outcomes. Like the gastric bypass and the Lap-Band® procedure, gastric sleeve surgery can be performed laparoscopically, reducing the risk of infection and speeding post-operative recovery time. Unlike these other procedures, however, the VSG is irreversible. Read the full story

Fat cells have a maximum load they can withstand. Exceed it—through pressure or vibration—and the cells disintegrate, research shows.  Read the full story

Obesity has twice the impact on our nation’s health care expenses than previously estimated, new research shows. Read the full story

High fructose corn syrup has a bad reputation as a potential cause of obesity in America. Now manufacturers are hoping a name change will revamp its image. Read the full story

Obesity and excess belly fat can be brought on by daily stresses, like pressure at work or prolonged financial struggles, experts say. Read the full story

Obesity is often genetic, but a new study shows that maintaining an active lifestyle and getting regular exercise can trump DNA in the battle of the bulge. Read the full story