Exercise Does Not Burn Off Bad Diet
Exercise does not prevent holiday weight gain, according to a new study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Researchers analyzed weight, blood pressure, and other health measurements between the months of November and January for 148 adults. Participants saw an increase in weight (with an average weight gain of 1.7 pounds), body fat, blood pressure, and heart rate by the end of the holidays. Exercise did not protect against weight gain or increased body fat. The average American gains 1.0 to 2.2 pounds per year, most of which can be attributed to holiday eating.
For examples of healthful holiday recipes, see PCRM’s Food for Life newsletter.
Stevenson JL, Krishnan S, Stoner MA, Goktas Z, Cooper JA. Effects of exercise during the holiday season on changes in body weight, body composition and blood pressure. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2013;67:944-949.
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