Research challenges beliefs about exercise and weight loss effectiveness

A metabolism researcher has challenged common beliefs about calorie burning and weight loss. Herman Pontzer studied the Hadza tribe in Tanzania and found their daily energy expenditure was similar to that of sedentary office workers, despite their high activity levels. Pontzer's findings led to the development of the "constrained total energy expenditure model." This theory suggests that the body can adjust calorie burning by slowing down other biological processes, keeping total energy expenditure within a narrow range. These insights indicate that exercising alone may not significantly impact weight loss, as the body compensates for increased activity by reducing calorie burn in other areas.