Obesity risk increases for every can of diet soda consumed per day, say researchers, and artificial sweeteners may contribute to the growing rate of diabetes. Read the full story

For many Americans, Thanksgiving marks the first day of a five-week holiday party circuit filled with incredible foods and decadent desserts. Joyful celebrations with co-workers, family and loved ones almost inevitably include high-calorie cakes, cookies and cocktails – making it near impossible to focus on weight loss. A more realistic plan is to aim for weight maintenance rather than trying to shed excess pounds during the holidays, experts say, and to wait until January to resume a more restricted diet.

Here are three smart strategies to keep your waistline in check through the final weeks of 2010, so you can start the New Year with a positive outlook. Read the full story

Overweight women who are past menopause have a harder time keeping off extra pounds than their thinner counterparts, research shows. Read the full story

Overeating for just a few weeks could have lasting health consequences. In a new study, participants continued to pack on fat even after returning to a healthy diet. Read the full story

Obesity and weight gain dramatically increase the chances of developing diabetes for senior citizens, a new study shows. Read the full story

A high-fat diet not only increases the risk of heart disease, but could also affect lung function, according to a new study. Read the full story

Obese individuals usually suffer from numerous health issues related to their weight. So, why does one Jersey woman want to tip the scales at 1000 pounds? Read the full story

Weight gain could be linked to lack of sleep, according to a new study.  People under 40 who regularly get an average of five hours of sleep or less a night are at increased risk of accumulating abdominal fat. Read the full story