What is one reason physical activity alone does not always lead to weight loss?

• A. Exercise only affects Calorie expenditure, but creating a Calorie deficit requires changing Calorie intake.
• B. Exercise causes a drop in BMR as the amount of lean muscle mass increases.
• C. Weight loss suppresses appetite.
• D. It is very easy to accidentally increase Calorie consumption after exercise.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the relationship between physical activity and weight loss: Physical activity increases energy expenditure, which can contribute to creating a Calorie deficit. However, weight loss requires a balance between Calories consumed and Calories burned.
2. Recognize that exercise alone may not always lead to weight loss because it only addresses one side of the energy balance equation (Calories burned). The other side, Calorie intake, must also be managed effectively.
3. Consider the behavioral aspect: After exercising, individuals may feel hungrier or believe they have 'earned' extra food, leading to an increase in Calorie consumption. This can offset the Calories burned during exercise.
4. Acknowledge that the body's natural response to exercise can include compensatory behaviors, such as eating more or reducing non-exercise physical activity, which can further reduce the net Calorie deficit.
5. Conclude that while exercise is an important component of a healthy lifestyle, successful weight loss typically requires a combination of regular physical activity and mindful dietary choices to ensure a sustained Calorie deficit.