Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 7, 2026

A Method for Manipulating Blood Glucose and Measuring Resulting Changes in Cognitive Accessibility of Target Stimuli
Published on: August 12, 2016
Behavioral science research in diabetes: lifestyle changes related to obesity, eating behavior, and physical activity
R R Wing1, M G Goldstein, K J Acton
1Weight Control and Diabetes Research Center, Miriam Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02906, USA. rwing@lifespan.org
Abstract:
Lifestyle factors related to obesity, eating behavior, and physical activity play a major role in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. In recent years, there has been progress in the development of behavioral strategies to modify these lifestyle behaviors. Further research, however, is clearly needed, because the rates of obesity in our country are escalating, and changing behavior for the long term has proven to be very difficult. This review article, which grew out of a National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases conference on behavioral science research in diabetes, identifies four key topics related to obesity and physical activity that should be given high priority in future research efforts: 1) environmental factors related to obesity, eating, and physical activity; 2) adoption and maintenance of healthful eating, physical activity, and weight; 3) etiology of eating and physical activity; and 4) multiple behavior changes. This review article discusses the significance of each of these four topics, briefly reviews prior research in each area, identifies barriers to progress, and makes specific research recommendations.
Related Concept Videos
Carbohydrate Metabolism
Starch accounts for approximately 60% of the carbohydrates consumed by humans. Since amylase enzymes cannot function in the stomach's acidic environment, starch can only be digested in the mouth and small intestine. Simple sugars are found naturally in milk and fruits in the...
Diabetes: Management and Pharmacotherapy
Insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment for most patients with type 1 and many...
Behavior Modification
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
Lifestyle Factors and Health
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques VI
Motivation and Self-Determination
Motivation, the driving force behind behavior, plays a pivotal role at every stage of the change process. The research...
Type II Diabetes I: Introduction

