Exercise alone may not lead to significant weight loss from "summary" of The Obesity Code by Dr. Jason Fung
Exercise is often seen as the magic bullet for weight loss. However, the truth is far less miraculous. It is entirely possible to exercise regularly and still not lose weight. This paradox has confounded many people who have diligently followed their exercise routines, only to see the number on the scale remain stubbornly high. The reason for this lies in the way our bodies handle energy. Exercise burns calories, there is no doubt about that. However, our bodies are masterful at adapting to changes in energy expenditure. When we exercise more, our bodies compensate by burning fewer calories at rest. This phenomenon is known as metabolic adaptation. Moreover, exercise tends to increase appetite in many people, leading them to consume more calories than they burn during their workouts. This can easily cancel out any potential weight loss benefits of exercise. In fact, studies have shown that exercise alone is not an effective weight loss strategy for most people. The key to successful weight loss lies not in exercise alone, but in a combination of factors. Diet plays a crucial role in determining our body weight. Consuming excess calories, particularly from refined carbohydrates and sugars, can easily outweigh any calorie deficit achieved through exercise. To truly see significant weight loss, one must focus on both diet and exercise. These two factors work synergistically to create a calorie deficit that can lead to fat loss. By combining a healthy, whole foods diet with regular exercise, one can achieve sustainable weight loss that is not easily undone by metabolic adaptations or increased appetite.- While exercise is important for overall health and well-being, it may not be the most effective strategy for weight loss on its own. To achieve significant and lasting weight loss, one must address both diet and exercise in a comprehensive approach.
