Khaberni - As we age, the risk of weight gain increases, but this is not necessarily due to a slowdown in the metabolic process, as much as it is due to changes in lifestyle and a decrease in physical activity.
Dr. Elia Barsukov, an endocrinologist, points out that weight gain with age is typically associated more with changes in daily habits than with physiological changes. Over time, people become less active, adopt a more comfortable lifestyle, and reduce their physical activity, while their diet remains unchanged or even increases.
Dr. Barsukov said: "Metabolism does not slow down directly with age, but a person's lifestyle changes. People become less active, use transportation more frequently, and seek more comfortable living conditions, while the amount of food they consume remains the same or sometimes increases. As a result, energy expenditure decreases, and the risk of weight gain in middle-aged and elderly people becomes higher compared to young people."
He explained that underlying medical conditions, such as joint problems, may reduce physical activity, and menopause and the subsequent hormonal changes are a significant factor in weight gain in women.
He added: "The body's natural energy reserves begin to gradually diminish between the ages of 45 and 60, but it is not too late for effective intervention and lifestyle modification. After the age of 40-45, reliance on the body’s innate resources decreases, and dependence on the individual through their diet, physical activity level, and daily habits increases. These factors play a very important role in maintaining weight and overall health in middle age."
