Focusing on dieting has failed to offset the rising tide of obesity, say researchers from the Universities of Arizona and Virginia. A focus on fitness gives better health outcomes

People should concentrate on exercise and staying fit – rather than dieting and weight loss – when it comes to cutting the risks of living with obesity, according to new research.

A study, published in the journal Science, looked at existing studies and data and compared the mortality risk-reduction associated with weight loss with that associated with an increase in physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness.

Risk profiles
The researchers found that the risk-reduction associated with increased fitness and physical activity was consistently greater than that which could be achieved through the use of intentional weight loss programmes, given dieting is commonplace, but obesity levels are still rising.

“Multiple surveys demonstrate a high prevalence of weight loss attempts over the past 40 years, during which time, obesity prevalence has increased approximately three-fold,” the report states.

“Thus, the intense focus on weight loss has not prevented excessive weight gain in recent decades.

“Moreover, repeated weight loss efforts may contribute to weight gain and are undoubtedly associated with the high prevalence of weight cycling, which is associated with significant health risks.”

Benefits of exercise
“In contrast to the inconsistent and inconclusive results of decades of intentional weight loss programming and activity, increasing either physical activity or cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with significant reductions in all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality risk, giving greater benefits.”

Called obesity treatment: weight loss versus increasing fitness and physical activity for reducing health risks, the study was authored by professor Glenn Gaesser from Arizona State University and associate professor, Siddhartha Angadi, from the University of Virginia.

Weight obsession vs health
Gaesser said: “We realise that in weight-obsessed cultures, it may be challenging for programmes that are not focused on weight loss to gain substantial traction among weight-conscious populations.”

The benefits of fitness when it comes to longevity and all-cause health outcomes are so substantial they should be the priority, said Gaesser: “We’re not necessarily against weight loss; we just think that it shouldn’t be the primary criterion for judging the success of a lifestyle intervention programme.”