The "golden key" to preventing weight regain.

Recent research published by the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) suggests that maintaining around 8,500 steps per day could be the "golden key" to helping those who have lost weight avoid regaining it.

According to the VNA correspondent in Rome, Marwan El Ghoch, co-author of the study from the University of Modena and Reggio-Emilia (Italy), said that about 80% of overweight or obese people will regain some or all of the weight they lost within 3 to 5 years.

To find a solution to this problem, the research team analyzed data from numerous clinical trials involving nearly 4,000 patients. These trials compared groups that adopted lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications combined with increased physical activity and step tracking, with groups that only followed a diet or received no treatment.

The results showed that those who increased their activity level to an average of 8,454 steps per day at the end of the weight loss period lost approximately 4.39% of their body weight, equivalent to about 4 kg. More importantly, maintaining this level of activity during the “weight maintenance” phase significantly reduced the risk of regaining weight. El Ghoch emphasized that those planning to lose weight should be encouraged to aim for around 8,500 steps per day and maintain this consistently after weight loss to create a “natural barrier” against regaining weight.

The study also warns of the rapidly increasing rate of obesity globally. According to the World Obesity Prevention Association, the global obesity rate could reach 30% by 2035. Obesity not only affects appearance but also increases the risk of many serious diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental disorders, and death.

Recent studies have shown that obese individuals have up to a 70% higher risk of severe infections compared to the general population, and that one in ten deaths from infectious diseases is linked to overweight or obesity. In Europe, the World Health Organization's (WHO) goal of halting the rise in obesity by 2025 has almost failed, with obesity rates increasing by 138% since 1975.

Researchers concluded that maintaining a daily walking habit is one of the easiest, least expensive, yet most effective measures in preventing obesity and non-communicable diseases. A target of 8,500 steps per day is now considered a reasonable level of exercise to support sustainable weight loss, while also improving cardiovascular health, metabolism, and quality of life.

VIET HAI

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/-chia-khoa-vang-giup-khong-tang-can-tro-lai-a204380.html