Diet v Exercise
They are both important, obviously. But when you’re looking to accomplish something specific, which one weighs more heavily? In the artcile Diet v. Exercise: The Smackdown, Women’s Health writer Ellen Page breaks it down…and I’m recappin’ it in case you aren’t the article readin’ type! 
What are you trying to achieve?
If you said weight loss: diet wins. You can easily (with self-control) eliminate 500 calories from your diet but to burn 500 calories at the gym? That takes far more work. So here, you diet is key to losing weight. Exercise (followed by diet) is key to keeping the weight off.
If you said to be more energized: exercise wins. When we exercise, our brain sends all kinds of good neurotransmitters out (like norepinephrine) which causes an energy boost. You know what else I think? I think it causes a happiness boost, too
If you said to prevent diabetes: exercise wins. A lot of people think it’s all about diet but exercise is actually important here. My mom has diabetes so I know if I don’t take care of myself, I could be at risk. Page says: “Achieving a healthy weight through diet and exercise is the strongest defense against the disease, but physical activity has a slight edge. Active muscles gobble up glucose from the blood for fuel, which helps keep blood-sugar levels stable.” Good to know!
If you said improving your mood: exercise wins. Did you know that a 20-minute workout can be enough to boost your mood for 12 hours? Man, if working out alone doesn’t provide enough benefits this added bonus really makes it even better! I need to exercise for like, 5 hours after work then
I was surprised to find out diet isn’t the leading factor in preventing diabetes but then again, it does seem like getting exercise is key to overcoming a lot of mental barriers.
Hope everyone has a wonderful Thursday!
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