Back in 2007, scientists discovered that people with two copies of a variant within the FTO gene are on average 3kg heavier than those without it, affecting 16% of all Europeans.

“Convincing Proof that the FTO gene causes obesity” says lead researcher.

In the latest research, published in Nature Genetics this week, scientists bred mice with extra copies of the gene, which ate more and became fatter than normal mice. After 20 weeks female mice with two copies of the FTO gene were 22% heavier than normal and male mice were 10% heavier – although researchers did comment that the weight differences in humans were unlikely to be as large.

The next stage of research will focus on why the FTO gene causes obesity, for example, whether it increases appetite or alters messages from our fat stores.

Professor Frances Ashcroft of Oxford University commented: ‘We can now think about developing drugs that turn down the activity of the FTO gene as potential anti-obesity pills – that’s a long way off and there’s no certainty of success, but it’s an enticing prospect.’

535 Fully Bra

I have been asked by many Harwayes customers to bring back the popular Vanity Fair range of bras – so now I have! Vanity Fair has recently changed its name to become Bestform Lingerie. The brand continues to offer lingerie to fit larger cup sizes with great fit, comfort, shaping and support.

Style 535 Fully Bra

Illustrated is the bestselling style number 535 Fully bra, available from 2 September. Made from100% knitted jersey cotton cups, this comfort bra is fresh in wear and soft against your body – cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Available in White and Black in sizes 34B to 48F and 34 – 44FF & G.

Bravado Body Silk Nursing Bra

Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra

The biggest selling Bravado bra is the Body Silk Seamless Bra – designed to melt onto your body and give you comfort unlike any you’ve experienced from a bra before (nursing or not!) Our view -  Perfect as the comfiest T-shirt bra ever!

This bra is so comfortable and has such an excellent range of sizes I sold one to a wheelchair bound elderly customer last week – I’ll let you know how she gets on with it.

Bravado Essential Nursing Tank Top

Essential Nursing Bra Tank Top

Our other new Bravado product is the nursing vest top – perfect for day wear, nightwear, yoga classes, the beach…long enough to cover your bump, fitted and flattering without being clingy – once discovered, this top is one you’ll never be without.

To order go to http://www.harwayeslingerie.com/brands.asp?bid=31

Open Corselette by Playtex

Harwayes customers will be glad to know that we continue to offer their favorite Playtex and Naturana girdles and corsalettes by mail order. We usually deliver within 4 – 5 days of receiving your order. If you cannot see what you are looking for, please do get in touch, as we can often still obtain even discontinued items from Playtex.

Elomi Lingerie Range - For fuller Figures

A recent Sunday Times article by Eleanor Mills (24 Jan 10) celebrates that more manufacturers are offering lingerie for bigger cup sizes and the availability of shops such as Bravissimo to sell it at reasonable prices.

However, interestingly in the comments section, (http://women.timesonline.co.uk) readers complain that it is still difficult to get bigger back sizes. We are actively working on this, adding the Elomi range to our website which goes up to 46 back size. Elomi is a sister company to Freya and Fantasie, so we know their bras are excellent – ultra supportive and elegant.

We already list the Elomi sports bra (www.harwayeslingerie.com/sports) and we can obtain any of the range if you are interested – please phone or email us for a colour catalogue and price list. Phone 01780 766 936 (enquiries@harwayeslingerie.com)