Physical activity levels after weight loss differ between black and white women

After weight loss from dieting alone or in combination with an exercise regime, physical activity is usually easier and individuals may be expected to pursue a more active lifestyle. In a study of black and white women who experienced substantial weight loss through dieting alone, Weinsier et al. found that most of the black women experienced a major decline in physical activity that could predispose them to weight regain. In contrast, the white women increased their activity levels in response to weight loss.

At the beginning of the 6-month study, the 18 white and 17 black largely sedentary women, averaging 36 years old, were all overweight and had a family history of overweight or obesity. The participants were compared to 38 control subjects who had never been overweight. In a 24-week3 clinically controlled weight loss regime that provided approximately 800 calories per day, the women lost an average of 13 kg each and attained a body mass index of <25, in the normal range. No advice to alter daily activities or establish a formal exercise component was included in the weight loss program. Both before and 1 month after the weight loss, average daily energy expenditure (AEE) was determined, and the women were asked to report their self-perceived daily level of physical activity. Although both white and black women said they had become more active since weight loss, the black women’s AEE had decreased by an average of 26%, whereas the white women experienced a 16% increase.

The authors conclude that the black women’s subsequent decline in physical activity put them at much greater risk for weight relapse. An exercise training program is an essential component of any weight loss plan for obesity-prone persons of both races, and perhaps especially for black women to maintain weight control.

Weinsier, Roland L et al. Physical activity in free-living, overweight white and black women: divergent responses by race to diet-induced weight loss. Am J Clin Nutr 2002;76:736-42.

This media release is provided by The American Society for Clinical Nutrition to provide current information on nutrition-related research. This information should not be construed as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, consult your doctor. To see the complete text of this article, please go to:
http://www.faseb.org/ajcn/October2002/12883.Weinsier.pdf

For more information, please contact:
weinsier@shrp.uab.edu

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