Obesity caused by genetic factors can be overcome, according to a new study, which indicates physical activity during adolescence is the key. Read the full story

Childhood obesity is influenced by numerous factors, from genetics to junk food. Now, a new study indicates that mothers who exercise during pregnancy could help reduce their baby’s risk of future weight issues. Read the full story

Obesity has done a number on cholesterol levels among kids and teenagers, studies show. And in some cases, the numbers are high enough to signal heart problems. Read the full story

This week on WLS News, we’ll tell you why one couple is facing charges of child abuse after reacting badly to their baby’s weight gain. Plus, find out what Oscar-winning director Barry Levinson is doing to address the nationwide obesity epidemic — and the controversy surrounding the project. We’ll also tell you about a weight loss pill in the works that uses a natural protein, reveal the results of a new experiment on willpower, and share some alarming statistics concerning the cardiovascular health of today’s youth. Read the full story