Scientists Confirm: Human Body Loses Most Fat Through Breathing, Not Sweating

Australia, El Sky News – Researchers from Australia reported this month that most human fat is eliminated through exhaled carbon dioxide, a finding by the University of New South Wales that challenges long-held public assumptions about how the body loses weight. The study explains that when the body breaks down fat for energy, the majority of its mass exits through breathing rather than through sweat.

In their analysis, scientists found that fat stored as triglycerides is converted into carbon dioxide and water during metabolism. The carbon dioxide is released through every exhalation, while the water leaves the body through urine, sweat, and other fluids. According to the research team, 84 percent of the mass from burned fat leaves via exhaled CO₂, and only 16 percent is discharged as water.

The researchers said this discovery corrects the popular belief that sweating is the main mechanism for losing fat. While exercise remains essential for increasing energy expenditure, the actual “loss” of fat takes place through respiratory output, not perspiration.

The findings generated significant discussion online, with many readers expressing disbelief and calling the concept “strange but fascinating.” Experts noted that although the idea may seem counterintuitive, the process aligns with established biochemical principles and offers a clearer understanding of how weight loss truly works.