Weight loss is often recommended for improving overall health, particularly for reducing the risk of conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. A recent randomized controlled trial explored how weight loss impacts these risks and whether exercise type plays a role in sustaining the benefits.
The study involved 221 sedentary women, aged 21-49, who were classified as having overweight. Participants followed an 800 kcal/day diet until their BMI dropped below 25 kg/m^2. After this initial weight loss phase, they were assigned to one of three groups: Diet+Aerobic exercise, Diet+Resistance exercise, or Diet-only.
Researchers found that initial weight loss significantly reduced predicted 10-year risks for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) across all groups. However, these improvements were not always sustained; both MACE and T2D risks partially rebounded at the one-year follow-up, coinciding with some weight regain.
While the Diet-only group initially saw a greater reduction in MACE risk compared to the Diet+Resistance group, the picture for type 2 diabetes risk differed. All groups saw T2D risk decrease, but only the Diet+Resistance group maintained a significant net reduction at the one-year mark. Furthermore, consistent exercise adherence during the follow-up period was linked to a lower rebound in T2D risk.
It's important to understand that this study used predicted 10-year risk calculations, not actual observed events of MACE or type 2 diabetes. While these calculations are based on established cardiometabolic disease staging equations, they are still predictive models. The study also focused specifically on sedentary women with overweight, so these findings may not directly apply to other populations or those with different health profiles.
For individuals aiming to improve their heart and metabolic health through weight loss, these findings offer practical insights. While any weight loss can provide initial benefits, incorporating resistance exercise might be particularly helpful for sustaining reductions in type 2 diabetes risk over time. Maintaining an active lifestyle post-weight loss appears to be a key factor in preventing the rebound of these health risks.
The research suggests that while weight loss is effective in reducing cardiometabolic risks, the long-term maintenance of these benefits is crucial. Resistance exercise, in particular, shows promise in helping to preserve the reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, even if some weight regain occurs.
Medical note. This article provides general education and information. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.