For years, health experts and the media have been blaming obesity on a lack of physical activity, pushing the idea that those extra pounds can be shed through exercise. However, recent evidence confirms that obesity is predominantly caused by a poor diet high in sugar and carbohydrates consumption, not physical inactivity.
In an editorial published by the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM), three cardiologists stress that the myth of physical inactivity and obesity has been deeply ingrained into the public’s perception, resulting from the food industry’s influence. The industry has spent billions of dollars promoting sugary drinks and products using popular sports figures and teams, similar to the way tobacco companies deceived the public in the past.
Several studies cited by the cardiologists reveal that the physical activity levels of Western societies have changed very little in the past 30 years, exposing calorie consumption as the primary factor for the obesity epidemic. They also point out that poor diet generates more disease than physical inactivity, alcohol, and smoking combined, as reported by the Lancet global burden of disease.
The Dangers of Excess Sugar and Carbohydrates
Sugar consumption is at the heart of metabolic abnormalities such as obesity, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular disease. Excess sugar intakes lead to excess insulin, which builds up as fat. Diets high in sugar and carbohydrates cause obstructions in insulin absorption, leading to miscommunication within the body about where to store surplus fat. This can result in the breakdown of muscle and bone, leading to weakness and osteoporosis, as well as insulin resistance, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer.
When insulin levels are high, due to excessive sugar consumption, the body becomes a sugar burner instead of a fat burner. No amount of exercise will help shed fat if the body continues to consume surplus sugar. Low insulin levels drive the body to burn fat, thus facilitating weight loss.
Cutting Out Unnecessary Sugar and Carbohydrates
One key aspect to change in the Standard American Diet (SAD) is dramatically lowering sugar and refined carbohydrate intake. This can be difficult, as the food industry has hooked many people onto such products with high fructose corn syrup sneaking into various items in our pantry.
To combat this, it’s crucial to read nutrition labels and select products without added sugars and high levels of carbs. Choose whole, unprocessed foods and be mindful of what you put into your body.
Exercise is Still Important
While exercise is not the primary factor in weight loss, its benefits must not be forgotten. Regular physical activity plays a crucial role in overall health maintenance, particularly for seniors. Incorporating exercise as part of a healthy, low-sugar, and low-carbohydrate lifestyle can maximize weight loss and improve overall well-being.
