New York: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve metabolic health—even without shedding pounds—according to a new international study.
The research, conducted by Ben-Gurion University (Israel), Harvard University (US), and Leipzig University (Germany), focused on individuals who are considered “weight loss resistant.” These individuals adopt healthy habits but struggle to lose weight, reported Xinhua news agency.
“We’ve been conditioned to see weight loss as the ultimate sign of health, and those who can’t lose weight are often seen as failures,” said lead author Dr. Anat Yaskolka Meir, a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard Chan School’s Department of Epidemiology.
“Our study shifts that narrative. Even without weight loss, people can improve their metabolism and reduce long-term disease risk. That’s not a failure—it’s a hopeful outcome,” she added.
Published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, the study challenges the widespread belief that weight loss is the main indicator of a successful diet. It found that participants who didn’t lose weight still experienced measurable improvements in several key health markers.
The study followed 761 adults over 18 to 24 months. All participants adopted healthy diets and made lifestyle changes without relying on supplements or medications. They also received free gym memberships and personalized exercise support.
By the end of the study, about one-third of the participants had not lost weight, despite faithfully adhering to the program.
Researchers concluded that healthy eating and regular exercise can deliver significant health benefits—such as reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes—even in the absence of weight loss.