NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis)

NEAT stands for Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis — the calories you burn doing everyday activities that are not formal exercise. This includes walking to the MRT station, taking the stairs, doing household chores, fidgeting, and even standing instead of sitting. Small increases in NEAT throughout the day can add up to significant extra calorie burn over time.

Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis encompasses all energy expended for activities excluding sleeping, eating, and planned exercise. NEAT is the most variable component of total daily energy expenditure (TDEE), ranging from 15% in sedentary individuals to over 50% in highly active occupations. Research by Levine et al. demonstrated that inter-individual NEAT differences can account for up to 2,000 kcal/day, making it a critical determinant of weight regulation independent of structured exercise.

For patients who struggle to maintain weight despite regular gym sessions, increasing NEAT can be the missing piece. Dr. Joseph Wang and the Accord Medical team incorporate NEAT strategies into personalised lifestyle plans — small changes that fit into your Singaporean daily routine.