Exercise is important – it releases endorphins, combats various health conditions, boosts energy, and more. Plus, physical activity burns calories which can help us to lose or maintain our weight. However, there are many factors that contribute to weight control aside from exercise.
Throughout the day, we burn calories without even thinking about it. While physical activity contributes to the total number of calories burned per day, the majority is actually attributable to the body’s Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR).
The Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) accounts for approximately 60-80% of total energy expenditure for the average human, while about 10% comes from digesting food.
The general rule for weight loss is that you must burn more calories per day than you consume. However, relying on the calories that the body burns on its own is usually not enough to create this deficit. In order to successfully lose weight and keep it off, 2 key factors must be considered:
1. Medical Guidance
Using their extensive knowledge, bariatric physicians are able to recommend individualized plans that safely and effectively address underlying causes of weight gain. Plus, they are qualified to prescribe medications like RM3® which help the body target fat and improve the metabolism in a way that can’t be achieved alone.
“1 pound is equal to 3500 calories. So, you would have to subtract 500 calories per day to lose 1 pound per week. However, you don’t have to worry about this formula with RM3®!”
– Dr. Suzanne Bentz, D.O., Founder & Chief Medical Officer
2. Physical Activity*
“Physical activity loos different for everyone! In fact, it is the little habits that you do every day that have the most impact on how many calories are burned”
– Anita Terlizzi, Certified Personal Trainer & Success Coach
Looking to burn more calories throughout the day? Try this:
- Running your dog
- Hiking with a friend
- Go on walks after dinner
- Do yoga for 10 minutes before bed
- Park your car further away fro your destination to motivate yourself to get more steps in
- Use a standing desk
*Consult your Medical Provider regarding the appropriate exercise level for your body and your RM plan.