Variations in dietary-induced thermogenesis and body fatness with aerobic capacity

Abstract

Resting metabolic rate (RMR), dietary thermogenesis (DIT), aerobic capacity ( \(\dot V\) O₂ max), and percent body fat were measured in a group of sixteen women and ten men. DIT was significantly positively correlated with aerobic capacity (r=0.658). Percent body fat was significantly negatively correlated with \(\dot V\) O₂ max (r=−0.727). RMR was independent of \(\dot V\) O₂ max, or body fatness, but women had a significantly higher average RMR than men. Three men and three women participated in an endurance training program which significantly increased \(\dot V\) O₂ max. DIT was increased in proportion to the increase in aerobic capacity (r _s=0.924), RMR was unchanged, and body fat decreased in males but not females. The controversy surrounding “luxuskonsumption” may stem in part from not taking into account individual differences in aerobic capacity when measuring DIT.