Research

Adherence

Obesity is associated with a 'NEAT defect' where obese individuals sit significantly more and walk significantly less than lean individuals, independent of body weight.

If you are obese, recognize that your tendency to sit may be a learned or biological 'NEAT defect' rather than just a physical limitation. Try to consciously increase standing and walking time, even in small increments, as this can help reverse the energy deficit. Focus on environmental changes (like standing desks) to make movement easier.

ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
The data (Fig. 2c) demonstrated that obese subjects were seated for 2½ h day)1 more that lean subjects. The lean sedentary volunteers stood & walked for more than 2 h day)1 longer than obese subjects.
James A. Levine · Journal of Internal Medicine · 2007

Why this rating

Based on observational studies using micro-sensors in undergarments, comparing lean and obese subjects.

Source

Nonexercise activity thermogenesis – liberating the life‐force

James A. Levine · Journal of Internal Medicine · 2007

DOI 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2007.01842.x

narrative_reviewCited 202×
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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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