The Skinny on Obesity

How did we get so fat, so fast? The debut episode of this 7-part series debunks the theory that obesity only affects the “gluttons and sloths” among us and is, in fact, a public health problem that impacts everyone.

Dr. Robert Lustig illustrates the overabundance of sugar in today’s processed convenience foods and explains how our bodies metabolize these sugars in the same way as alcohol or other toxins, causing damage to the liver and other organs.

Sugar impacts the brain just as much as the waistline. In this episode, Dr. Robert Lustig explains the biochemical shifts that sugar causes, making us store fat and feel hungry at the same time.

Sugar isn’t just sweet, it’s addictive. This episode explores the cycle of addiction that sugar causes in the brain, much in the same way as drugs and alcohol.

An unnerving trend of obese infants is just one indication that obesity can be passed on from mother to fetus. This installment looks towards the next generation, with an emphasis on preventive care and pre-natal health.

The pace of modern life is a key contributor to today’s obesity epidemic. UCSF’s Elissa Epel and Barbara Laraia explain the stress connection and offer practical and effective solutions that don’t involve dieting and exercise.

UCSF experts offer a frank indictment of the country’s agricultural policy and food industry, which have made it nearly impossible to avoid sugar in our daily diet, and suggestions for possible remedies.

Throughout “The Skinny on Obesity” series, Dr. Robert Lustig has made his case that sugar is a toxin that’s fueling the obesity epidemic. But what does he recommend we do about it in our daily lives? Here Dr. Lustig offers four useful tips to help you and your kids steer clear of excess sugar and overeating.

Throughout "The Skinny on Obesity" series, Barbara Laraia and Elissa Epel of UCSF's Center for Obesity Assessment, Study and Treatment (COAST) have made the case that sugar and changes in the modern lifestyle have led to the global obesity epidemic. But what do they recommend we do about it in our daily lives? Here they share some helpful diet and lifestyle tips to keep you and your family on the slim side.