National Geographic | Mind, Body, Wonder

This week: The latest science on genetics and obesity; the new drug that may rival Ozempic for weight loss; the American diet that could lengthen your life; what you should know about microplastics in your body; the benefits of chocolate milk; how to solve childhood malnutrition; how to keep your pets healthy when it's hot.

PHOTOGRAPH BY CRISTINA FLETES-BOUTTE, ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH/TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE/GETTY IMAGES

How much of a role does genetics play in obesity?

Scientists have found that genetic mutations that make an individual feel less satisfied after a meal may be more common than previously thought. In fact, there are hundreds of genes that influence fat storage and metabolism. So, do we have any control over our weight at all?

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY

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PHOTOGRAPH BY JOERG MUELLER, VISUM/REDUX

Is Mounjaro the weight-loss drug we've been waiting for?

The FDA is evaluating the new diabetes drug Mounjaro as an obesity treatment, and early results show it takes the benefits of Ozempic up a notch. Here’s how they compare.

HOW IT COMPARES TO OZEMPIC

ILLUSTRATION BY LUISA RIVERA

This American diet could add 10 years to your life

It's not a fad diet invented by a South Beach doctor, a paleo diet marketer, or a social media influencer. This diet was developed by ordinary Americans, is widely affordable, and sustainable.

Tackling weight-loss myths:

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Not all fat is created equal. This 'good fat' could keep us youthful.

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What to know about Ozempic, TikTok's favorite weight-loss drug

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Low-calorie sweeteners might not be as good for us as we thought

PHOTOGRAPH BY ALEXANDER STEIN, JOKER/ULLSTEIN BILD/GETTY IMAGES

Microplastics are in our bodies. How worried should we be?

Scientists have found tiny plastic particles in living humans, in two places where they hadn't been seen before: deep inside the lungs and in the blood. "Yes, we should be concerned," scientists say. "Plastics should not be in your blood." But how much harm do they actually cause? The science is unsettled, but here's what we know so far.

HOW HARMFUL IS IT?

IS TAP WATER SAFE TO DRINK? Here's a look at the chemicals found in drinking water, how it's regulated, and more +

WAIT, CHOCOLATE MILK IS GOOD FOR YOU?

PHOTOGRAPH BY ILDI PAPP, PICTURE PRESS/REDUX

At a marathon, you'll often see this sugary beverage as one of the many post-race snacks available to runners—and experts say that there's science to back that up. But does that mean it's the ideal post-workout drink for the average person—or that it's healthy? Here's a look at when chocolate milk is what your body needs—and what that means for you.

THE BENEFITS OF CHOCOLATE MILK

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No time to exercise? Just 5 minutes still has a big impact.

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New clues are revealing why exercise can keep the brain healthy

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'Pickleball is for everyone': Inside America's fastest growing sport

CAN SUPPLEMENTS SOLVE MALNUTRITION?

G.M.B. AKASH, PANOS PICTURES/REDUX

Globally, about 45 percent of deaths among kids under 5 are linked to undernutrition. Even if they survive, malnutrition can disrupt kids' neurological, cognitive, and physical growth and development. But experts say restoring these children's health isn't just about consuming more calories: gut microbes may be just as important.

REBOOTING THE MICROBIOME

GUT HEALTH: Your child's mood, mental health, and cognitive development starts in their gut +

HEALTHY PETS, HEALTHY YOU

PHOTOGRAPH BY TARA WRAY

Every year, hundreds of U.S. pets die from heat-related deaths—including from being trapped inside hot vehicles. So what should you do if you see a dog locked inside a hot car? 14 U.S. states have laws to protect you if you damage property to rescue an animal. Is yours one?

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Is your dog overweight? You may not realize it.

How extreme heat affects our pets—and how to help them

Betta fish are often mistreated. Here's how to care for them properly.

If you're chronically stressed, your dog could be too

Here's what your cat's tail is trying to tell you

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