Expert Dr
Alex Johnstone
(Rowett Research Institute) explains
Does dieting make you fat?
Listen to the SCIENCE SNAP
Script
When we think of obesity, Americans often spring to mind as being the world
leaders in large bottoms. But the shocking truth is that Britain is not far
behind. There are many and complex reasons why this is happening, but
it’s true that the majority of people who lose weight will subsequently
regain the lost weight.
When we lose weight, our metabolism (the body’s engine) decreases because
it’s related to the actual amount of body tissue. So less body, lower
metabolism, less energy required. If after weight loss you go back to eating
what you did before you started dieting, you will gain weight.
In theory, achieving weight loss is simple, consume less calories than you
expend. But the reality is that we live in an 'obesogenic' environment, which
promotes weight gain.
National Science and Engineering
Week 2007
(9-18 March)
National Science and Engineering Week (formerly National Science
Week) is an opportunity for people of all ages to take part in
science, engineering and technology activities.