NEAT stands for Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis, which refers to the energy expenditure of daily physical activities that are not considered structured exercise. When you increase your NEAT, you can increase your overall calorie burn during the day without it feeling like a chore.
Increasing NEAT is an often recommended strategy for promoting weight loss and improving overall health.
Increasing NEAT can have several health benefits, including:
- Weight management: NEAT can contribute to a significant amount of daily energy expenditure and increasing it can help with weight management.
- Improved cardiovascular health: Increased physical activity levels can improve cardiovascular health, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Improved metabolic health: NEAT can also have a positive impact on insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, and other markers of metabolic health.
- Improved mental health: Regular physical activity, including NEAT, can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Here are some easy examples of how to increase NEAT:
- Take frequent walking breaks throughout the day. For example, take a short walk around the office or your neighborhood every hour.
- Stand up and stretch every hour, especially if you work at a desk.
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Park farther away from your destination and walk the extra distance.
- Do household chores, such as vacuuming or washing dishes, regularly.
- Play with your children or pets.
- Consider using a standing desk or taking phone calls while standing.
Remember, even small changes to your daily routine can make a big difference in your overall activity levels and contribute to the health benefits of increasing NEAT.