Muscle weakness and abdominal fat affect the physical performance of the elderly, says research | Sao Carlos and Araraguara

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The study, conducted by Roberta de Oliveira Maximo, a graduate student in physiotherapy, was monitored using a database from the University College of London in the United Kingdom. 3,800 English seniors for 8 years.

During this time, the elderly repeated three experiments: sitting and getting up from a chair, standing still in different positions and walking 2.4 meters. These actions, when modified or done with difficulty Indicators of functional decline.

“Physical inactivity is the first indicator of impaired function in the elderly and is considered a pre-clinical transition stage for disability, i.e. appearing before difficulties in daily activities such as transportation, shopping, housekeeping. Clothes., Preparing food, bathing, dressing, going to the bathroom and eating.” Said Diego da Silva Alexandre, a professor of gerontology who oversaw the project.

Men suffer the most

In the surveyed population, the greatest physical disability was found in a group of older men with a combination of abdominal obesity and muscle weakness.

This is because older men and women lose muscle strength and tend to accumulate belly fat. Very serious among men.

“Fat in the stomach produces inflammatory cytokines that cause muscle wasting,” Roberta explained.

According to the study, the symptoms of the disease are more than 102 cm in waist circumference for men, more than 88 cm for women, less than 26 kg for men and less than 16 kg for women through the handle strength test.

Roberta insists that it should be evaluated by combining two factors. This is because the study found that obesity or loss of strength was not associated with worsening physical performance in the elderly over time.

According to the researcher, men and women over the age of 40 should pay attention to these factors, when the body begins to accumulate fat differently, with a greater accumulation in the abdomen.

Early detection of these difficulties allows risk factors to be modified, along with weight loss mechanisms such as a balanced diet and aerobic activity, in addition to strength exercises for muscle strengthening.

“Older people should increase their intake of protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, cheese and grains such as soy and beans. These foods, which are associated with physical exercise, can help improve muscle strength,” the doctor explained. Marcelo Valente is an expert in geriatrics.

In cases where functional decline has begun, it may be necessary to associate specific physical therapy with weight loss and muscle strengthening.