The effect of physical activity on weight loss is mediated by eating self-regulation

Objective

This study tested whether different forms of physical activity (PA) were associated with eating self-regulation during weight control, and if changes in eating behavior mediated the relationship between PA and weight loss, in overweight/obese women.

Methods

239 women (37.6 ± 7.0 years; 31.3 ± 4.1 kg/m²) participated. The intervention group received a 12-month group behavioral treatment designed to increase autonomy and self-regulation for weight control. Controls received a health education program. Assessments included body weight, structured and lifestyle exercise/PA, and eating self-regulation.

Results

Moderate + vigorous and lifestyle PA were associated with 12-month change in most eating variables (p < 0.05) and with body weight change (p < 0.01). Mediation analysis showed that flexible cognitive restraint and emotional eating fully mediated the relation between lifestyle PA and weight change (effect ratio: 0.63). About 34% of the effect of moderate + vigorous PA on weight change was explained by these same mediators (partial mediation).

Conclusion

Exercise and PA may positively influence weight control through eating self-regulation. Flexible dietary control and reduced emotional overeating are mechanisms by which an active lifestyle can contribute to long-term weight management.

Practice implications

Regular exercise and PA can contribute to improved eating behaviors during weight management. This could represent an important incentive for people seeking weight control.