Physically Active Lifestyle Does Not Decrease the Risk of Fattening
2009
Active Lifestyle and Weight Gain
Sample size: 40
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Klaas R. Westerterp, Guy Plasqui
Primary Institution: Maastricht University
Hypothesis
Does a physically active lifestyle prevent weight gain as people age?
Conclusion
A shift from an active to a sedentary lifestyle leads to increased fat storage due to insufficient dietary adjustments.
Supporting Evidence
- Body mass index increased from 22.8±2.0 kg/m2 at baseline to 24.3±2.6 kg/m2 at follow-up.
- Total energy expenditure showed a non-significant decrease, while activity energy expenditure significantly decreased.
- Subjects with a higher physical activity level at baseline gained more fat.
Takeaway
If you stop being active as you get older, you might gain weight because you don't eat less to match your lower activity.
Methodology
The study observed healthy, non-obese adults over an average of 11 years, measuring physical activity and body fat changes.
Limitations
The study only included healthy, non-obese adults, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
17 women and 23 men, average age 27±5 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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