Weight Loss: Cardio vs. Calorie Restriction

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"It may even be more time economical to lose weight through dietary intervention," Dr. Weiss said. "But the benefit of exercise beyond that obtained through diet is really the preservation of the body systems that allow a person to be physically active and perform physically demanding tasks."

Dr. Weiss said there are two requirements for exercise-induced weight loss: substantial time commitment and consistent food intake. Increased food consumption can quickly eliminate the benefits of exercise. Even if you try to lose weight without dieting, it's still important to monitor what you put in your mouth.

Because of their high caloric content, "a PowerBar and a Gatorade can very quickly eliminate the beneficial effect of exercise," Dr. Weiss said. "While exercise is appealing with these added benefits, it is a little trickier and a person has to be cautious."

This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, who offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, go to: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.

SOURCE: Ivanhoe interview with Edward Weiss, Ph.D., Saint Louis University; Journal of Applied Physiology, 2006