Young children should not watch any TV because it sets them up for obesity and poor academic performance at school, say experts.

NZ's high rate of obesity is no surprise, because of its fat-promoting environment and love affair with cars, a nutrition expert says.

Medical researchers have begun to elucidate the complex role of genes in human health.

Romanian is seeking to become the first country in the world to impose a far-reaching tax on junk food.

A study has found that that laboratory rats will endure painful electric shocks to satisfy their craving for high-calorie snacks made from sausages, bacon and cheesecake.

Reality television has been accused of dumbing down the nation, but a study suggests some shows could be good for children.

Obese patients have been paid up to $911 to lose weight in a UK trial to test if financial incentives can be used to change unhealthy behaviour.

Time to switch the box off? Medical experts explain why you probably should.

Nutritionists and obesity experts turned on Weight Watchers yesterday after it teamed up with the fast-food chain to promote three of its meals.

It seems like an unlikely alliance, but Weight Watchers has backed three items on McDonald's menu.

The debate about extra-large passengers - should they have to buy a second seat instead of spilling over into their skinny neighbours' space - is off again.

A surgeon has been reprimanded for swearing at a severely obese patient and for punishing her by removing her from a waiting list.

The first lady has unveiled her public awareness campaign against childhood obesity in the US.

It's only a matter of time before airlines start demanding fat passengers pay for two seats, an aviation commentator says.

Air France says obese passengers who are asked to pay for an additional seat will be reimbursed if the plane isn't full.

Passengers who are unable to squeeze into a single aeroplane seat will have to pay 75 per cent of the cost of a second seat under the new rules.