A new study has found that an hour of moderate exercise may help curb hunger just as effectively as the weight-loss drug Ozempic. Researchers from Australia and Iran discovered that overweight and obese individuals who engaged in moderate-intensity workouts experienced a significant reduction in hunger levels, thanks to appetite-suppressing chemicals naturally produced by the body.
The findings could provide a natural and cost-effective alternative to expensive GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, which can cost over $1,000 per month. Experts say this new discovery offers hope to those seeking weight-loss solutions without relying on medication.
How Exercise Naturally Suppresses Appetite
Scientists found that moderate exercise triggers the release of peptides, which are short chains of amino acids that regulate hunger. These peptides function similarly to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone, the same mechanism targeted by popular weight-loss drugs.
Bariatric physician Dr. Mir Ali explained that people should pay closer attention to how their bodies respond to exercise. If working out naturally reduces hunger, he said, individuals should use that signal to adjust their eating habits accordingly.
The study’s participants, who cycled for an hour at a moderate intensity, reported a noticeable decrease in appetite following their workouts. While the hunger suppression was not as drastic as what is seen with medications like Ozempic, researchers believe that exercise provides a viable and sustainable weight-loss tool.
Moderate Exercise as a Weight-Loss Strategy
Moderate-intensity workouts include activities such as brisk walking, swimming, and cycling. Experts define this level of exertion as increasing the heart rate to about 50-60% of its maximum while still allowing for conversation.
Beyond appetite suppression, regular exercise also burns calories, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances overall well-being. Unlike weight-loss drugs, it comes without the risk of side effects like nausea and digestive issues.
Although medications like Ozempic provide rapid appetite suppression, researchers believe that incorporating physical activity into daily routines may be a more sustainable way to manage hunger and promote long-term weight loss.
Dr. Ali emphasized that while exercise alone may not lead to dramatic weight loss, combining it with mindful eating could make achieving weight goals easier. He advised individuals to listen to their bodies and adjust their food intake based on hunger cues post-exercise.
With obesity rates on the rise and access to costly weight-loss medications limited, experts hope that this research encourages more people to consider natural methods like exercise for appetite control and overall health improvement.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.