Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT) refers to the energy expended for everything we do that is not sleeping, eating, or structured exercise. This includes activities like walking around the house, fidgeting, doing chores, and even standing. NEAT plays a significant role in our daily caloric expenditure and can vary greatly from person to person based on lifestyle and habits.
NEAT matters for health because it contributes to overall energy balance and weight management. While structured exercise is important, NEAT can make a big difference in how many calories we burn throughout the day. For some people, increasing NEAT can help with weight loss or maintenance, especially for those who may not have time for regular workouts. It emphasizes that every bit of movement counts and can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
In the body, NEAT functions by increasing the number of calories burned during daily activities. This energy expenditure can help prevent weight gain and support metabolic health. Even small increases in NEAT can accumulate over time, leading to significant differences in health and fitness levels. For example, standing up while working, taking the stairs, or even pacing while talking on the phone can all contribute to NEAT.
Overall, understanding NEAT highlights the importance of incorporating more movement into our daily lives. It shows that being active doesn’t always mean hitting the gym; even small changes can lead to better health outcomes. By recognizing and increasing NEAT, individuals can take control of their health in simple, manageable ways.