Nutri Courses

Advisory

Negative energy balance

Negative energy balance means that the body expends more energy than it takes in through food and drinks. This state is often intentionally sought by individuals trying to lose weight, as the body begins to use stored fat reserves as an energy source, leading to a reduction in body weight.

However, if the negative energy balance is prolonged and extreme, it can lead to malnutrition and other health problems. The body may start using muscle tissue as an energy source, resulting in a loss of muscle mass. A long-term energy deficit can also cause fatigue, decreased immunity, menstrual cycle disorders in women, and other health issues. Therefore, it is important that negative energy balance is always monitored by a specialist and is well-balanced.

Hello,
Can I reach a negative energy balance just by increasing physical activity?
Thank you.

Of course, it is essentially the most effective way to maintain an energy balance in negative numbers. Unlike strict control of dietary quality, physical activity is a simpler and at the same time more effective way to alter the ratios of energy intake and expenditure. An advantage is also the fact that physical exertion increases the activity of muscle metabolism, thereby allowing muscle tissue to burn a greater amount of energy even at rest.

Questions answered by

Mgr. Martin Jelinek
Lecturer and author of the educational system

Mgr. Martin Jelínek has been systematically involved in nutrition education since 1999. He is the founder of ATAC, the educational company behind NutriCourses, and the author of an educational system focused on nutrition, healthy lifestyle, and the practical application of nutrition knowledge.

He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University in Brno. Throughout his professional career, he has combined nutrition, education, and the practical application of acquired knowledge. His educational system also includes the ZOF (Zone of Optimal Functioning) learning application, where students turn theory into practical work with meal plans.

In 2007, he launched the first intake of a six-month course focused on the education of nutrition advisors. Over time, this course became the foundation for the further development of the educational system and a range of specialised courses.

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