In young women with normal BMI but high body fat percentage (≥33.3%), a 4-week caloric restriction of 500 kcal per day increases subjective appetite sensations, specifically desire to eat and prospective consumption, as measured on the VAS scale, and the combination of this caloric restriction with aerobic exercise prevents these increases.

When calories are reduced, the body loses muscle and signals hunger to restore energy. Aerobic exercise keeps muscle from breaking down by activating signals that build muscle proteins and reduces insulin levels, which in turn prevents the drop in a satiety hormone called PYY. This stops the brain from increasing hunger signals, even when the body is in energy deficit.