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Scientists at the University of Oslo assert that maintaining stable weight within normal limits can prevent the fragility and weakness commonly observed with aging. The study, which followed 4500 adults over 45 years of age for 21 years, defined fragility/weakness as the presence of two to five symptoms, including unintentional weight loss, exhaustion, weak hand grip, low walking speed, and low fitness levels. These individuals are at a higher risk for falls, hospitalization, reduced quality of life, and death.
A study published in BMJ Open found that middle-aged individuals who were overweight in 1994 were 2.5 times more likely to be frail in 2015. The research also highlighted that gaining weight around the waist increases the likelihood of weakness in old age. The study evaluated Body Mass Index and waist circumference both independently and together as risk factors for weakness in old age. In 2015-2016, 28% of the participants were in the pre-frail stage, 1% were frail, and 70.5% were still strong. The majority of those who were strong (51%) and pre-frail (55%) were women.
The study found that individuals who were overweight in 1994 were 2.5 times more likely to be weak or extremely weak after 20 years compared to those with a normal Body Mass Index (BMI). Additionally, both those who were normal weight but had a large waist circumference and those who were overweight with a large waist circumference were found to have an increased risk of vulnerability in old age. The risk of weakness was highest for those who gradually gained weight over the study period and developed central obesity, or a “belly.”
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Experts have found that an increased inflammation in fat cells and a decrease in muscle strength and energy due to excess weight on the body are the cause for concern. It is clear that research emphasizes the importance of monitoring our weight in middle age for maintaining good health in old age.
