How Exercise Affects Lean Body Mass During Caloric Restriction

Why was this study done?

Caloric restriction is well-known to reduce metabolic rate because of a loss of lean body mass. Discovering ways to reduce caloric intake while maintaining lean body mass is of utmost importance to persons who wish to lose and maintain a healthy weight. This study was designed to understand the role of exercise during caloric restriction, on metabolism, muscle strength, bone mineral density, and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max).

What did the study find?

This study showed that exercise helped to maintain lean body mass during moderate calorie restriction and the women who participated in an exercise program continued to lose weight after the study period.

Effects of diet and exercise on energy expenditure in postmenopausal women.
Authors: Thompson JL, Gylfadottir UK, Moynihan S, Jensen CD, Butterfield GE. Am J Clin Nutr.  1997 Oct;66(4):867-73.
PubMed Citation PMID: 9322562.
PDF Manuscript: Am J Clin Nutr, 1997.