Midlife weight reduction linked to extended, healthier lifespan, according to recent research findings
A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki has found that weight loss from lifestyle changes during midlife can lead to significant long-term health benefits, beyond the prevention of diabetes.
The study, which analysed data from over 23,000 participants aged between 30 and 50, found that a modest weight loss of 6.5% was associated with reduced risks of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, cancer, dementia, osteoporosis, and improvement in menopausal symptoms.
The researchers compared the groups based on their starting weight and body mass indices (BMIs), and their weight journey over the course of the studies - whether they lost weight, maintained the weight loss, or gained the weight back. The participants who were able to keep the weight off were more likely to have the best health outcomes.
The benefits of lifestyle-based weight management have long been discussed, but it has been surprisingly difficult to demonstrate health benefits beyond the prevention of diabetes. Professor Timo Strandberg, who led the study, stated in a news release that he hopes the findings will inspire people to make lifestyle changes for major health improvements and a longer life.
Maintained weight loss in middle age was associated with several health benefits. Strength training during midlife counters muscle loss that typically slows metabolism, supporting better weight maintenance and overall physical function. Sustainable weight loss that focuses on fat loss (not muscle loss) improves metabolic markers and long-term health outcomes.
The study also found that a lower risk of developing several chronic diseases was observed in those who lost 6.5% of their body weight. Greater weight loss in surgical or pharmacological interventions may be accompanied by a significant loss of lean body mass, which could pose challenges over time.
It remains uncertain whether the long-term benefits observed in the study extend to weight loss surgery or pharmacological interventions. The study was conducted before weight loss surgery had grown in popularity and before weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy were available.
The combined datasets included information on over 23,000 participants from three previous cohort studies: the Whitehall II study (1985-1988), the Helsinki Businessmen Study (1964-1973), and the Finnish Public Sector study (2000-2013). The researchers compared the groups to hospitalization and death records to determine the health risks and benefits.
The findings of the study indicate that midlife weight loss leads to broad benefits, including improved longevity, reduced chronic disease burden, better mental function, and stronger musculoskeletal health. The researchers emphasize the importance of comprehensive lifestyle changes like healthy eating, physical activity, and strength training for long-term health and wellbeing.
In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of making lifestyle changes for weight loss during midlife, as it can lead to significant long-term health benefits beyond the prevention of diabetes. It is hoped that the findings will inspire people to make changes to their diet and exercise habits for the sake of their health and longevity.
Maintaining weight loss in midlife is associated with several health benefits, including improved longevity, reduced risks of chronic diseases, and stronger musculoskeletal health. Sustainable weight loss that focuses on fat loss, not muscle loss, improves metabolic markers and long-term health outcomes. Strength training during midlife can counteract muscle loss and support better weight maintenance and overall physical function.
