Tailored text messages for teen weight loss

A University of Michigan study recently published in Obesity studied which kinds of text messages would be well received among obese teens who were part of a weight management program. Six types of messages were tested: testimonials, meal and recipe ideas, targeted tips, reflective questions, feedback questions and tailored messages. The teens liked the messages that told them what to do, weight loss strategies from other teens as well as messages that were uplifting. The group didn't like the messages that included unhealthful behaviors and food.

Video game playing increases food intake in adolescents

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that video game playing increased food intake in male adolescents. The increased food intake in the healthy male participant was regardless of appetite sensations.

Smaller brain region may fuel weight gain in teens

A new study suggests that the smaller size of an impulse-control region in the brain may predispose children to gain weight. Or, the obesity itself may influence brain size, which in turn may fuel uninhibited eating. The researchers noted that the study only shows an association and not a cause-effect link.

The study was presented at the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Meeting this week in New York City.