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Moderators of the relation between physical activity and subsequent energy intake among behavioral weight loss

Rebecca J Crochiere1, Daedalus T Fitzgerald1, Meghan L Butryn2

  • 1Department of Psychology, Williams College.

Health Psychology : Official Journal of the Division of Health Psychology, American Psychological Association
|March 5, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) may increase energy intake (EI) in individuals undergoing behavioral weight loss. Lower body mass index (BMI) and a higher perceived need for replenishment after exercise amplify this effect, potentially hindering weight loss.

Area of Science:

  • Behavioral medicine
  • Obesity research
  • Exercise physiology

Background:

  • Behavioral weight loss (BWL) programs combine reduced energy intake (EI) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).
  • The acute impact of MVPA on subsequent EI, and its dependence on individual factors like body mass index (BMI) and post-exercise cognitions, remains an area of investigation within BWL contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate whether BMI and post-MVPA cognitions moderate the relationship between MVPA and subsequent EI in adults participating in a BWL program.
  • To understand how acute changes in EI following MVPA might influence overall daily EI and weight loss outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Ninety-one adults with overweight/obesity in a BWL trial provided data during a midtreatment assessment.
  • MVPA was tracked using Fitbit devices, EI was recorded via a self-monitoring app, and BMI was calculated from weight and height.
  • Post-MVPA cognitions assessed included permissiveness to eat, perceived need for replenishment, and weight loss motivation.

Main Results:

  • Lower BMI and a higher perceived need for replenishment significantly amplified the positive association between MVPA and EI in the 2 hours post-exercise.
  • Increased EI in the 2-hour post-MVPA window was trending towards association with greater overall daily EI.
  • Greater daily EI was negatively associated with percent weight loss at the midtreatment assessment.

Conclusions:

  • Individuals with lower BMI and a greater perceived need to replenish experienced higher EI after MVPA.
  • Acute increases in EI following MVPA may predict higher daily EI, potentially impeding weight loss.
  • Targeted interventions to manage post-MVPA EI in specific subgroups within BWL programs are recommended to maintain dietary adherence and improve weight loss efficacy.

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