#6352
Mentioned in 8 episodes
Burn
The Misunderstood Science of Metabolism
Book • 2021
In this book, Herman Pontzer challenges conventional wisdom about metabolism, exercise, and weight loss.
His groundbreaking research shows that exercise does not increase our metabolism; instead, humans burn calories within a narrow range of nearly 3,000 calories per day, regardless of activity level.
This evolutionary strategy, while beneficial for survival in times of famine, contributes to modern obesity.
Pontzer emphasizes that weight loss requires cutting calories and that all diets succeed or fail based on calorie intake.
He also stresses the importance of exercise for maintaining optimal body function, even if it does not lead to weight loss.
The book is filled with facts, memorable anecdotes, and insights into how metabolism controls various aspects of health, from fertility to immune function.
His groundbreaking research shows that exercise does not increase our metabolism; instead, humans burn calories within a narrow range of nearly 3,000 calories per day, regardless of activity level.
This evolutionary strategy, while beneficial for survival in times of famine, contributes to modern obesity.
Pontzer emphasizes that weight loss requires cutting calories and that all diets succeed or fail based on calorie intake.
He also stresses the importance of exercise for maintaining optimal body function, even if it does not lead to weight loss.
The book is filled with facts, memorable anecdotes, and insights into how metabolism controls various aspects of health, from fertility to immune function.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 8 episodes
Mentioned by 
Jen Gunter as a book that challenges common assumptions about calorie burning and weight loss.
Jen Gunter as a book that challenges common assumptions about calorie burning and weight loss.
163 snips
Sunday Pick: Can I speed up my metabolism? | Body Stuff
Mentioned by Brad Kearns when discussing the bioenergetic model of health and optimal calorie consumption.
Your Secret Weapon for Fat Loss is NOT a Calorie Deficit or Macros | Ep 314
Mentioned by Laurel Ann Coop, who read it and wanted to discuss the constrained energy expenditure theory.
Why You're Gaining Weight While Doing Cardio, How to Build Muscle and Improve Performance at the Same Time, How Much Protein Can Your Body Metabolize? and More...
Mentioned by E.C. Sinkowski in relation to the impact of sedentary behavior on appetite.
10 Lessons from “Ultra-Processed People”: The Science Behind Our Modern Food Crisis
Mentioned by Dennis Marshall as a book he is currently reading, focusing on research of the Hadza hunter-gatherer tribe and energy expenditure.
165: The REAL Secret to Surviving Tough CrossFit Workouts and Staying Consistent
Mentioned by 
Alok Jha as the author of the books "Burn" and "Adaptable", discussing his research on human metabolism.
Alok Jha as the author of the books "Burn" and "Adaptable", discussing his research on human metabolism.
Herman Pontzer: what people get wrong about metabolism
Mentioned by Dennis Marshall as the source of research on human metabolism and the role of exercise in weight loss.
Exercise is USELESS For Weight Loss
