Significant Weight Loss Unlikely Without Exercise

Brace yourself: those hopes of losing pounds by cutting calories but skipping the gym are officially crushed, thanks to recent research published in the American Journal of Physiology--Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology (the title of which is so laborious to say that it amounts to a workout in and of itself). Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University found that when they placed female monkeys on a lower-fat diet, the monkeys failed to achieve weight loss because, as a result of the diet, they reduced their activity level.

The researchers' results suggest that there's a natural mechanism in our bodies that responds to a lower caloric intake by conserving energy. Although this appears to be a natural response to circumstances in which food is not plentiful, it ain't doin' any favors for the lazy ladies among us. While doctors often advise people to reduce their caloric intake to lose weight, this study suggests that dieting alone isn't enough: people need to combine healthy eating with regular exercise.

Now, if you're trying to lose weight, it's important to remember that working out often increases your appetite, so if you're getting a snack attack, don't go blowing all of your hard work on froyo binges and late night pizza. Instead, shove some celery in your mouth and fantasize about the tight ass that's in your future.

Source:
Oregon Health & Science University (2010, April 13). Diet alone will not likely lead to significant weight loss. EurekAlert! Retrieved from http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-04/ohs-daw041310.php