Stop making physical activity about losing weight, doctor says

SALT LAKE CITY — Exercise is often a word connected with weight loss, when in fact exercise is not the most effective way to lose weight.

In the latest episode of the Let’s Get Moving podcast, host Maria Shilaos spoke with Dr. Brett McIff, coordinator for the Utah Physical Activity and Nutrition Grant, who outlined the dramatic benefits of physical activity.

“If there is such a thing as a magic bullet when it comes to living longer, better, healthier lives, it is physical activity,” McIff said.

 

What we eat plays the biggest role in our weight, according to McIff.

“The majority of weight loss comes from proper nutrition. We’ve always said this, but you can never outrun a bad diet. And even then, even if your diet is great, there’s probably a couple things you can do to help augment it through physical activity.”

Health benefits of physical activity

However, McIff emphasized that there’s so much more we can earn from physical activity that has nothing to do with weight loss.

For example, it could reduce your risk of getting diseases. It could also help strengthen your bones, which is especially important for younger people with weak bone density.

McIff said physical activity can also be powerful for your mental health.

“Even if it’s just two, five, 10 minutes of activity, [that] can make a difference on what we call your positive effect, this ability to look at the world maybe a little bit more positively.”

Read more from the Let’s Get Moving podcast:

• Sleep specialist says changing the clocks ‘is toxic’ to our minds and bodies
• Nutritious food is good for your mood
• Simple ways to keep respiratory illnesses away

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