Unhealthy foods can be hard to resist, but new research suggested that regular physical exercise can help reduce the desire to eat unhealthy foods, especially for people who are overweight or obese.

The Study

The British Journal of Sports Medicine published a study that examined the effects of exercise on food preferences and appetite among overweight and obese individuals.

The study involved 2,680 participants who were asked to complete a questionnaire about their physical activity level, food preferences, and appetite. The researchers found that those who engaged in regular physical activity had a reduced desire for sugary and fatty foods.

How Exercise Affects the Brain

Exercise can help individuals reduce their desire for unhealthy foods due to the way it affects the brain’s reward system. Researchers believe that regular physical activity changes the brain’s response to food cues.

Exercise can stimulate the same reward centers in the brain that are activated by food, which can decrease cravings for unhealthy foods.

Exercise, Hunger, and Appetite

Exercise can also affect hunger and appetite by influencing hormones that regulate these feelings. After exercising, individuals may experience a decreased appetite due to increased levels of hormones such as peptide YY and glucagon-like peptide-1.

These hormones can help reduce food intake by sending signals to the brain that indicate fullness.

Recommended Exercise for Reducing Desire for Unhealthy Foods

The study suggests that engaging in physical activity, such as brisk walking or cycling, for at least 30 minutes a day can help reduce cravings for unhealthy foods. Resistance training was also found to be effective in reducing food cravings.

Food Choices After Exercise

After exercise, individuals may be more inclined to make healthier food choices. Research showed that individuals who exercised chose healthier food options after their workout compared to those who did not exercise.

Individuals who engaged in physical activity had reduced cravings for sugary and fatty foods and chose healthier options such as fruits and vegetables.

Conclusion

Regular exercise can have numerous benefits, including reducing the desire for unhealthy foods. Engaging in physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day can help individuals control their cravings and make healthier food choices.

Exercise can also affect hormones that regulate hunger and appetite, which can lead to reduced food intake. With regular exercise, individuals can develop a healthier lifestyle and achieve their weight and fitness goals.