Physical Activity Plays an Important Role in Body Weight Regulation Journal of Obesity

17 January 2012

Recent literature highlights the need to incorporate physical activity in any strategy to prevent weight gain and to maintain weight loss over time. In addition, physical activity should be part of any plan to lose weight. The introduction to exercise generates valuable metabolic adaptation that improve balance and energy regulation of macronutrients.

A tight coupling between energy intake and energy expenditure has been documented, as well as high levels of exercise, suggesting that exercise can improve the control of appetite. Regular physical activity has also been reported to reduce the risk of weight gain induced by stress. A more individualized approach is recommended in planning exercise programs in the context of weight loss to limit the compensatory changes associated with weight loss induced by exercise. With the modern environment, overeating and physical inactivity, there is an urgent need for concerted action, including legislation to promote a healthy and active life in order to curb the current epidemic of chronic diseases.