New Study Finds Lower Calorie Mediterranean Diet and Light Exercise Can Help Prevent Age-Related Health Issues
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has revealed that as we age, our bodies tend to lose muscle mass and gain belly fat, increasing the risk of health problems such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, the study suggests that following a lower calorie Mediterranean diet and engaging in light exercise can help prevent or delay these age-related changes.
The study included participants between the ages of 55 and 75 who were overweight or obese. Over a three-year period, those who followed a lower calorie Mediterranean diet and engaged in light exercise up to six days a week experienced significant benefits. They lost more body fat and retained more muscle compared to those who did not adopt these lifestyle changes.
One significant finding from the study was that participants who received regular guidance from dietitians lost more fat. This highlights the importance of professional support and guidance when implementing changes to one’s diet and exercise routine.
Furthermore, the study found that participants who followed the lower calorie Mediterranean diet and engaged in light exercise also experienced a decrease in harmful visceral fat. Visceral fat is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Hence, these lifestyle changes not only help combat age-related changes but also provide additional health benefits.
The research drew upon data from an ongoing eight-year Spanish study involving overweight or obese participants with metabolic syndrome. Although the study yields promising results, further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of these changes on participants’ health. Additionally, it remains to be seen if these findings can be applied to a younger or healthier demographic.
These findings shed light on the importance of adopting a healthier lifestyle as we age. By following a lower calorie Mediterranean diet and incorporating light exercise into our daily routine, we can potentially ward off age-related health issues such as muscle loss and belly fat gain. The study emphasizes the need for professional guidance and further research to fully comprehend the impact of these changes on overall health and their applicability to different demographics.
As we await more research, individuals are encouraged to consider implementing these lifestyle changes for their overall well-being. By doing so, we may be able to age gracefully while keeping age-related health concerns at bay.
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