Working Out Hard May Fast-Track Weight Loss Goals, Especially for Women
Working out hard may fast-track your weight loss goals, especially if you’re a woman, according to a recent study from the University of Virginia. The study found that vigorous exercise suppresses levels of the "hunger hormone" ghrelin in healthy adults more than a moderate workout.
Ghrelin: The "Hunger Hormone"
Ghrelin is a hormone primarily produced in the stomach that tells the brain when it’s time to eat. It circulates in two forms: acylated, the active hormone, and deacylated, the most abundant form of ghrelin in the body. Less acylated ghrelin means less hunger.
Study Finds Intense Exercise Suppresses Ghrelin
Eight men and six women participated in the study, fasting overnight and exercising at various intensities. The researchers measured their blood lactate, which indicates the intensity of exercise, and their levels of ghrelin. The results showed that only women demonstrated "significantly reduced" acylated ghrelin after intense exercise, indicating less hunger.
Findings
- Vigorous exercise suppresses levels of ghrelin in healthy adults more than moderate exercise.
- Women had higher amounts of total ghrelin at the start of the study compared to men.
- Only women demonstrated "significantly reduced" acylated ghrelin after intense exercise.
- Moderate-intensity exercise didn’t change ghrelin levels or lead to an increase.
- Exercise should be customized based on individual goals, with high-intensity exercise may being important for appetite suppression.
Conclusion
The study’s findings suggest that exercising above a certain lactate threshold may be needed to suppress ghrelin. This information can be useful for individuals looking to fast-track their weight loss goals, particularly women. By incorporating high-intensity exercise into their routine, women may be able to suppress their hunger hormone and achieve greater success in their weight loss journey.
FAQs
Q: What are the benefits of high-intensity exercise?
A: High-intensity exercise can suppress levels of the "hunger hormone" ghrelin, leading to less hunger and potentially faster weight loss.
Q: Is high-intensity exercise better for weight loss than moderate-intensity exercise?
A: Yes, high-intensity exercise may be more effective for weight loss, particularly for women, as it can suppress ghrelin levels.
Q: Can I customize my exercise routine based on my goals?
A: Yes, the study suggests that exercise should be tailored to individual goals, with high-intensity exercise being important for appetite suppression and potentially leading to greater weight loss.
