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Calcium Important in Weight Battle

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Calcium Important in Weight Battle

Calcium Important in Weight Battle

Sheehan, Patricia

Posted July 22, 2003

Dairy products are one of the first casualties of many a dieters battle against the bulge. But a new study suggests this strategy could backfire-and low-fat, calcium-rich foods like yogurt may help turn up the body's fat-burning ability.

The study, conducted by Michael Zemel, Ph.D, professor of nutrition at the University of Tennessee, found that individuals who included a light yogurt as part of their weight loss plan lost significantly more weight compared to others who simply reduced calories. The yogurt eaters lost 22 percent more weight, 61 percent more body fat and 81 percent more trunkal (stomach) fat during the 12-week study.

"Not only did yogurt help the participants lose more weight," says Zemel, "they were about twice as effective at maintaining lean muscle mass. This is critical when dieting-you want to lose fat, not muscle."

Zemel has been at the forefront of research examining the relationship between calcium and weight management. His previous studies have found that a diet low in calcium appeal's to stimulate the production of fat-producing enzymes and decreases the activity of enzymes mat break down fat. The result: bigger, fatter fat cells.

"The moral of the calcium story is to not dump dairy when you're dieting," says Zemel. "Not only is it critical to keep your calcium levels high so you won't lose bone density, it will also help you maintain your muscle mass and increase your fat loss."