Maintaining a Healthy Weight Makes For a Long Life

Tomasz Woźniak / Unsplash

We often accept packing on a few extra pounds as we get older—but that doesn’t mean we should ignore it. A new study published this month in the BMJ suggests that weight gain from your mid-twenties through middle age ups your risk for premature death. Findings also suggest that maintaining a healthy body weight through adult life lowers the risk of early death.

Researchers from Huazhong University of Science and Technology analyzed data from more than 36,000 adults age 40 and up. Participants had been part of a national health survey that lasted from 1988-2014. Researchers used height and weight data reported by participants at age 25 and at middle age, the average of which was age 47.

After an average of 12 years, 10,500 deaths occurred amongst the participant pool. Evidence showed that those who’d been obese through their adult lives had the highest risk for early death, while overweight participants had a slightly higher risk or none at all. Similarly, those who gained weight during their midlife also had a higher risk for premature death.

Working Towards a Long, Healthy Life

Some of you may know it’s time to take control of your weight loss or wellness journey. Many may not. The reality? It’s not always easy to know if you have a weight or body fat issue that could be potentially jeopardizing your health. While BMI is often how many people determine that they’re overweight, that number doesn’t necessarily reveal much about your body fat or overall health.

So, if we can’t tell we have a problem by looking in a mirror or stepping on a scale, how can we? Body composition analysis is an evidence-based method of measuring and describing what someone’s body is made of. It differentiates between fat, protein, minerals and body water to give you a realistic snapshot of your health.

Get a Free Body Composition Assessment

At SwimQuest+Fit, our fitness professionals use the Quantum IV Body Composition Analyzer to accurately measure your body fat and provide you with a sensible plan to reduce it. This unique approach can be invaluable during the holiday season when we tend to eat and drink more than usual—and can’t find time to squeeze in a workout.

SwimQuest+Fit members now receive a complimentary Body Composition Assessment and healthy exercise program. Visit our Tinton Falls location or call 732-922-7700 for more information.

To learn more about body composition analysis and how it can help you, check out this video.