(Lifestyle) KNOW THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MAINTAINING AN IDEAL WEIGHT AND HEALTHY AGING

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As we age, our body undergoes physical and metabolic changes, which predispose us to weight gain and loss of muscle mass. Dr. Stephen Anton, Research Expert in Metabolism and Longevity at the University of Florida, gave almost 200 health professionals from around the country the talk: "Relationship between ideal weight and healthy aging", with the aim of educating on the importance of maintaining a healthy body weight and thus opting for a better quality of life now and in old age.

According to the specialist, from the age of 40, both men and women experience changes in body composition such as loss of muscle mass and increased accumulation of fat, especially in the abdominal area. This visceral fat has inflammatory effects throughout the body, increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome: high blood pressure, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

This state of inflammation is called low-level chronic inflammation and although it does not cause physical pain, it causes the secretion of inflammatory substances that can impact the brain, cognitive function and general health.

“If obese and overweight people lose weight and regain it cyclically, their ratio of muscle mass to body fat will progressively deteriorate, to the detriment of their health. This low-muscle, high-fat body composition has a negative impact on the way they age, ”explained Dr. Anton.

“Upon reaching the desired weight, most people gradually abandon changes to their diet and physical activity. It is estimated that, among people who lost 10% of their body weight, in 1 year they regained 2/3 of the weight they lost, and almost all of it in 5 years. This cycle of weight loss and regain can outweigh the benefits of weight loss, "added Dr. Anton.

 

He also commented that as we age, the muscles, bones and joints undergo changes that cause discomfort, joint stiffness and reduction of physical activity, which favors weight gain.
HOW TO MAINTAIN THE IDEAL WEIGHT FOR A LIFETIME?
The expert's recommendation is to acquire a habit of exercising, for 200 to 300 minutes per week, and supplement with a balanced diet. "It has been proven that, in people who are overweight or obese, the loss of only 5% of body weight - which in some cases is only ten pounds - represents benefits such as lowering blood glucose levels and blood pressure" Anton stated.

Ideally, people should combine cardio, resistance / weight training, and flexibility. In addition, add a healthy diet, in which good quality proteins predominate, avoid added sugars and over-processed foods.

For people with sedentary lifestyles, the specialist recommends starting with small changes such as climbing stairs before using an elevator, parking the vehicle away from the access doors and walking your pet. These practices contribute to better blood flow and a positive impact on the muscles and the brain.

Additionally, Anton made a call to control and manage stress. When facing an episode of stress, the pulse quickens, you breathe faster, the muscles tense, and the brain uses more oxygen; As a result, if the stress response lasts too long, it can harm your health.

Dr. Anton visited Costa Rica to give a talk to almost 200 health specialists, thanks to the education efforts on nutrition and lifestyle issues of the Nestlé company and the support of the Costa Rican Association of Dietitians and Nutritionists (ACDYN) and the College of Nutritionists.

“At Nestlé, we are committed to education issues that contribute to a healthier future. Nutrition, as the central axis of the company, moves us to promote this type of space, with the aim of promoting healthier lifestyles and greater well-being for individuals and families ”, said Patricia Vial, manager of Nutrition, Health and Well-being Nestlé Central America.

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