Some people find it harder to lose weight than others, but why is this? A new study has identified a molecule in fat cells that could be to blame. Woman standing on scales with a measuring tape Researchers have uncovered one reason why some people may find it hard to lose weight. Researchers found that the fat cells of people who are obese show higher expression of a molecule called lysyl oxidase (LOX). LOX is associated with fibrosis, or "scarring," of fat tissue, which, as previous research has shown, can hamper weight loss efforts. Study co-author Dr. Katarina Kos, who works in the Diabetes and Obesity Research Group at the University of Exeter Medical School in the United Kingdom, and colleagues recently reported their findings in the journal Metabolism. It is thought that around 1 in 3 adults in the United States are obese, which puts them at increased risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and some forms of cancer. A lack of exercise and a poor diet are the pri...