High fat diets may be linked to brain damage, according to a new study. Findings indicated that consuming a diet high in fat not only damaged neurons in laboratory rodents, but also triggered greater food consumption and ongoing weight gain. 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

Obesity treatments range from physician-supervised diet and exercise programs to bariatric surgery. Now, a team of neurosurgeons is trying a different approach by stimulating the brain. Read the full story

The weight loss pill Meridia may increase the risk of heart attacks, according to a company-sponsored study, and is set for review by the FDA next week. Read the full story

Drinking two glasses of water before each meal could help you shed excess pounds, according to a new study. Read the full story

A new weight loss drug by Arena Pharmaceuticals shows promising results in clinical trials, and could hit store shelves by early next year. Read the full story

To burn more fat when training, don’t eat before you exercise, researchers say. Others recommend a small snack to avoid injury. Read the full story

A team of weight management specialists is expanding treatment options for people who cannot qualify for weight loss surgery, as well as bariatric patients who have gained back the weight. Read the full story