Are Weekends Wreaking Your Weight Loss Goals?
A recent study published in Obesity (2008; published online ahead of print July 1) found that weekends tend to be a time for excessive food consumption and reduced physical activity. Subjects included 48 adults aged 50-60 who were asked to keep a food and exercise journal for one year.
During the study, authors determined that a daily Caloric increase of 36% occurred on Saturdays, and that participants seemed unaware of the increased calorie hike. Authors also found that participants physical activity significantly decreased on Sundays compared to weekdays. The data gathered revealed this food and exercise pattern potentially contributed to a weight gain (instead of weight loss) of approximately 12 to 14 pounds per year!
“It was surprising how consistent the findings were,” stated lead author Susan B. Racette, PhD, in a press release. “We were surprised by the dramatic way in which weekends continued to slow those folks [who were actively] trying to lose weight throughout the course of the study.”
If your goal is to maintain or lose weight, I recommend taking a longer power walk using 2 pound dumb bells on one or both of your weekend days since you have more free time because you are not working. If you do decide to indulge and overeat on Saturday then, walk both days.
Have a great Monday,
Linda
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