Page 49 - Seniorstoday July 2022 Issue
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especially around the abdomen. one weak and unable to exercise as per the
Andropause body’s requirements, leading to weight
20 to 30 % of men in their 50s and more gain.
suffer- they show decreased levels of
testosterone in their systems.
It can lead to decreased muscle mass,
fatigue, chances of osteoporosis,
depression- all of which tend to cause
weight gain.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland, located in the neck,
produces hormones which control the body
metabolism. Age reduces the production of
these hormones, causing hypothyroidism, 4. Diseases –
a deficiency that results in reduced Orthopedic conditions
metabolic rate, causing weight gain, among Suffering from a condition such as gout
other symptoms. or arthritis makes it harder to exercise,
Hormones controlling appetite leading to weight gain.
It has been observed that Ghrelin and Diabetes
leptin, the hormones controlling appetite People suffering from diabetes, either 1 or
and satiety, respectively, show an type 2, have a tendency to be on the heavier
imbalance as age advances…it can cause side. Also, insulin therapy, if prescribed,
one to feel hungry frequently, as well as can cause weight gain, as insulin allows
reducing one’s satiety…you eat more, you glucose to be absorbed in to the cells. Any
gain weight. excess glucose is converted to fat and
stored.
2.Genetic
Studies show that genetics may be 5.Reduced metabolism
responsible for 50% of weight gain in the It is a well-known fact that our metabolic
middle aged. Environment is probably rate reduces with age. Though recent
responsible for the rest. Age naturally studies show it might not reduce at 50, but
makes one sedentary, and an individual probably closer to 60 years of age, it does
with a genetic pre disposition tends to gain reduce.
weight faster. A reduced metabolism means less use of
calories and fat in the body, which, in turn,
3.Loss of muscle mass means weight gain.
Sarcopenia, or loss of muscle mass, affects
about 10% of people over the age of 50. 6.Sedentary lifestyle
A sedentary life, less protein in the diet, Age tends to make one slower. Whether it
stress, all contribute to it. is joint complaints, low energy levels, lack
Muscle burns more calories than fat, and of inclination, or a busy schedule, the time
a reduction in muscle mass equals less taken for actual physical activities reduces.
calories burned by the body. It also makes Studies show that 60 to 80%of people over
SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #37 | JULY 2022 49
