Decreasing the biological drive toward weight gain by increasing energy flux (LB431)

Introduction: Weight regain after weight loss is the experience of most obese dieters. Metabolic adjustments characterized by decreased resting energy expenditure (REE) and increased hunger can prevent long-term success. Possibly this energy gap could be attenuated by a high flux (HF) state (higher expenditure coupled with higher intake). Methods: 5 obese adults [age (x ± SD) =46±10 BMI=35.0±3.7 kg/m2] underwent 7% weight loss and were stabilized at this weight for 3 weeks. REE via indirect calorimetry, and hunger via visual analog scale were then examined during two 4-day conditions of energy balance in random order: Low Flux (LF)-Sedentary with energy intake (EI)=REE x1.35; and HF-Daily exercise net energy cost of ~500 kcal/d and EI= REE x1.7. Results: Average 5 day weight did not differ between HF (96.9kg) and LF (96.5kg) (p>0.10). Average daily REE was higher during HF (1816±227 kcal/day) compared to LF (1747±221 kcal/day) (p= 0.07). Average perceived hunger was lower during HF (93.9±24.1) compared t...