Energy balance
The improvements in LDL particle size and VLDL mass resulting from weight loss are primarily driven by the reduction in body mass index (adiposity) rather than the method of weight loss (exercise vs. diet).
For improving LDL particle size and reducing VLDL, the method of weight loss (exercise vs. diet) matters less than achieving the weight loss itself. Both approaches yield similar benefits for these specific markers when the amount of weight lost is the same. However, you should still exercise because it provides additional HDL2 benefits that diet alone does not.
Most of the mean differences in lipoprotein changes between exercisers and controls and between dieters and controls can be attributed to weight loss... Adjustment for body mass index change... eliminated the significance of the exercisers'... increase in LDL peak particle diameter... and their 7-month small LDL decrease.
Why this rating
Robust RCT design with covariance analysis isolating the effect of BMI change.
Source
Changes in lipoprotein subfractions during diet-induced and exercise-induced weight loss in moderately overweight men.
Paul T. Williams et al. · Circulation · 1990
DOI 10.1161/01.cir.81.4.1293
Related findings · Energy balance
- Achieving a total body weight loss of 10-15% (or >10-15 kg) through Total Diet Replacement (TDR) induces remission of Type 2 Diabetes in individuals with short-duration disease.Strong
- Bariatric surgery is superior to medical management alone for inducing significant long-term weight loss, remission of type 2 diabetes, and reduction in mortality for patients with BMI ≥ 40 or ≥ 35 with comorbidities.Strong
- Achieving type 2 diabetes remission requires significant weight loss (≥15 kg) via major caloric restriction, independent of macronutrient composition.Strong
This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →