A recent study found that overweight people who spend a couple of weeks at a high altitude mountain facility managed to lose weight without dieting.  Twenty overweight men with an average weight of 230 pounds participated in the study.  The participants were taken to an elevated place of about 8,700 feet above sea level.

During the participants stay at a mountain location, the participants were allowed to eat anything they like but they are not allowed to take part in rigorous exercise.  The study revealed that there is a significant amount of weight loss in higher altitudes than in lower altitudes.

The researchers theorize that part of the loss in weight could be attributed to the thin air in higher altitudes.  The thin air shows an affect on the metabolism and appetite of the participants.  Appetites decline and metabolism increased even without exercising.  There was also an increase in the levels of leptin, a hormone that makes an individual feel full.

Still, the best way to lose weight and stay healthy and fit is to have a healthy diet and an active physical lifestyle.