Although hormones released during exercise helped suppress the appetite some people still ate more after exercise than those who did not participate in physical activity.
This used to worry officials because it means that excessive eating is canceling out the benefits of exercise. But this study showed that although the sporty people ate more, their caloric intake was still less because of the activity.
Researcher Dr Denise Robertson said, "In the past we have been concerned that, although exercise burns energy, people subsequently ate more after working out. This would cancel out any possible weight reduction effects of exercise."
"But our research shows that exercise may alter people's appetite to help them lose weight and prevent further weight gain as part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle."
Dr Ian Campbell, medical director of the charity Weight Concern, said, "This is an interesting study. Patients often report that they feel increased hunger and eat more after exercise.
"What this study shows is that, although total calorific intake is greater, the net result, because of the exercise taken, is a reduction in the net energy balance.
"Dieting is never easy. Increased physical activity is an essential part of any weight management program, not just to expend more calories but also, as we see here, to help control our appetite too."
