Many people do lose weight by dieting and exercising but then gain it back. Some people go through cycles of weight loss and weight gain called yo-yo dieting, which some studies have shown to cause further weight problems since more weight is gained back and less is lost in the subsequent cycles. Some of this lack of long-term success is because the RME is lowered when calorie intake is reduced. Although it recovers somewhat, it stays reduced after normal calorie consumption is resumed. In some ways, increasing activity is a better solution to the problem than is dieting, since exercise burns calories, increases lean body mass and energy expenditure.
Exercise also contributes to cardiovascular health and a general sense of well-being.
Increased activity is especially useful in maintaining weight loss once the desired body size is reached. The most successful diet plans combine a reduced-calorie diet and exercise into a program that a person can stay with for the rest of their lives. These programs include re-educating the person about healthy food choices, a sensible food plan that includes balanced amounts of protein and carbohydrate, and an exercise regimen that fits into a person's daily life. Such a program should suit the individual and his or her needs to make following it as easy as possible. Copyright 1998 - 1999 Medical Data Management .