If you’re currently on a weight-loss journey, you may be wondering whether focusing on diet or exercise is more important. According to registered dietitian and certified specialist in sports dietetics, Amy Goodson, diet plays a more significant role in weight loss.
Goodson explains that weight loss ultimately comes down to creating a calorie deficit, which means burning more calories than you consume. While exercise is important for burning calories and improving overall health, it can be challenging to out-exercise a poor diet and easy to consume more calories than you burn through exercise.
Studies have shown that diet contributes more significantly to weight loss than exercise, while exercise is crucial for maintaining weight loss and overall fitness. Goodson emphasizes the importance of dietary changes in controlling calorie intake and creating a consistent calorie deficit for successful weight loss.
It is a common misconception that exercise alone can lead to significant weight loss or that specific exercises can target fat loss in certain areas of the body. Goodson also dispels the myth that as long as you work out, you can eat whatever you want. She advises individuals to be mindful of their food choices and to focus on nutritious, portion-controlled meals while incorporating physical activity for long-term weight maintenance.
In order to achieve successful weight loss, Goodson recommends focusing on dietary changes that establish a calorie deficit, including portion control, consuming nutritious foods, and limiting processed foods and added sugars. She also suggests incorporating regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and maintaining a healthy, sustainable diet for overall health and weight management.
So, while both diet and exercise play a role in weight loss, it seems that focusing on a healthy diet may have a greater impact on achieving your weight-loss goals.