Lowering iron content in fat cells prevented mice from gaining excess weight Lowering iron content in fat cells prevented mice fed a high-fat diet from gaining excess weight and developing associated health problems by limiting the amount of lipids absorbed by the intestines, UT Southwestern scientists report in a new study. The findings, published online in Cell Metabolism, could eventually lead to new strategies to protect people against obesity and related diseases. It's easy to say that we should consume fewer calories – but at the same time, we all like to eat. By absorbing fewer lipids, these animals kept their weight down and did not experience the secondary consequences of excess weight gain."