NEAT: The Movement-Based Calorie Burn You're Missing

What is it?

Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT) is the energy expended for everything we do that is not sleeping, eating, or structured exercise. It includes all the movements from your daily life, such as walking to your car, typing, doing household chores, gardening, and even fidgeting. While these activities might seem insignificant on their own, they can collectively account for a substantial portion of your total daily energy expenditure. The amount of calories burned through NEAT varies significantly from person to person, potentially by up to 2,000 calories per day for individuals of a similar size.

Why is it trending?

NEAT is gaining attention as a powerful tool against increasingly sedentary lifestyles. Many people have jobs that require sitting for long hours, which has been linked to various health risks. NEAT offers a practical and accessible way to combat this by integrating more movement into daily routines without needing a gym. For those seeking weight management, focusing on NEAT is a sustainable approach to increase calorie burn. It emphasizes that all movement counts, which can be a more achievable and less intimidating concept for individuals who dislike or are unable to perform structured exercise.

How does it affect people?

Increasing your NEAT can have a significant positive impact on your health. By burning more calories throughout the day, it aids in weight loss and can help maintain a healthy weight. Studies show that incorporating more NEAT activities can improve metabolic health by helping to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Regularly engaging in light physical activity throughout the day also benefits cardiovascular health, can improve your mood and focus, and reduces the health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Simple changes like taking the stairs, standing while on the phone, or walking during breaks can add up.

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