These studies highlight NEAT as being the "solution". NEAT is non-exercise activity thermogenesis. Huh? Basically it is adding activity throughout your day and becoming less sedentary.
What does it look like? Well, basically it is an increase in those Activities of Daily Living: grocery shopping, going up and down the stairs in your house, fidgeting, (everything we do not sports-like, eating, or sleeping).......etc.
Can you increase your metabolism simply by moving more?
Possibly.
How do you add more NEAT to your day?
-- Consider wearing a pedomoter! I'm sure you are familiar with the 10,000 steps goal.
-- Before you sit down, do 5 or 10 squats
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-- When going upstairs, or downstairs, in your home or office go up and down twice before reaching your destination
-- Park further away from a store
-- Become a fidgeter! Think of those fidgeters in your life. I am willing to bet they are at a healthy weight!
-- Make cleaning your house a calorie-burning session! Dance, sing, jump, etc.
Does this replace regular exercise?
NO. Cardiovascular exercise at a moderate intensity and resistance exercise is important for heart health, increasing and maintaining lean body mass (muscle), and bone health. Plus it generates those feel-good endorphins that can help with depression and anxiety.
What will you do more of today to increase your NEAT?
I NEAT all the time. If I need 3 items from the freezer in the basement I make 3 trips. I put clean laundry away by making separate trips for each persons laundry, etc. This is in addition to my daily 3-5 mile walks. All of this has definitely maintain my weight, even through menopause!
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