Hormonal changes, lifestyle variables, and genetics affect body composition with age. These modifications are influenced by hormonal changes, including weight increase and fat distribution.
Hormonal Changes: Menopause in Women: Estrogen levels drop during menopause, usually about 50. This hormonal shift affects body composition.
Fat Distribution Impact: Increased Abdominal Fat: Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause in women, lead to increased visceral fat, which is accumulated around internal organs in the abdomen.
Muscle Mass and Metabolism: - Sarcopenia: Aging causes a steady loss in lean muscle mass. Hormonal changes, especially testosterone and growth hormone reduction, cause muscle loss.
Insulin Sensitivity: Insulin Resistance: Hormonal changes might impair insulin sensitivity, making blood sugar regulation harder. Insulin resistance causes abdominal weight gain.
Hormonal changes can affect appetite regulation, increasing food consumption. Energy Expenditure: Age-related metabolic rate reduction and physical activity variations might alter energy expenditure.
Regular Health Check-ups: Important for early diagnosis and management of age-related changes, including hormonal levels, bone density, and metabolic health.
Aging causes hormonal changes, but a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can reduce their effects on body composition and health. Effective age-related change management requires individualized approaches guided by healthcare specialists.