Tag

Body Composition

All articles tagged with #body composition

HIIT Could Help Seniors Trim Fat Without Losing Muscle
health24 days ago

HIIT Could Help Seniors Trim Fat Without Losing Muscle

Australian researchers followed over 120 healthy older adults (average age ~72) for six months and found that high‑intensity interval training (HIIT) reduced fat while preserving lean muscle mass, whereas moderate- and low‑intensity workouts also cut fat but were associated with small or unclear muscle loss. The findings suggest exercise intensity is key for aging body composition, though results apply to healthy individuals and HIIT may not suit everyone; medical or trainer guidance is advised before starting such a regimen.

Does Fasted Exercise Boost Fat Loss? Scientific Insights
health-and-fitness5 months ago

Does Fasted Exercise Boost Fat Loss? Scientific Insights

Research shows that fasted workouts do not lead to greater long-term fat loss or muscle gains compared to fed workouts, and short-term fat burning during exercise does not necessarily translate into overall fat loss. The decision to exercise fasted or not should depend on personal preference and how it affects your performance and well-being, rather than on unsupported claims of superior fat burning.

The Truth About Fasted Cardio and Fat Loss
health-and-fitness5 months ago

The Truth About Fasted Cardio and Fat Loss

Fasted exercise, or working out before eating, is popular for fat loss claims, but research shows it doesn't lead to long-term weight loss or body composition benefits compared to exercising after eating. While fasted workouts burn more fat during the activity, the body compensates over time, resulting in no significant long-term differences. Eating before exercise can improve performance and may aid in weight management, but the timing of meals around workouts has limited impact on results. Overall, the most important factor is simply exercising regularly, regardless of fasting or meal timing.

DEXA Scans: A Superior Measure for Health and Longevity
health-and-fitness1 year ago

DEXA Scans: A Superior Measure for Health and Longevity

Body composition tests, which measure body fat and muscle mass, are becoming more popular as they provide a more accurate picture of health compared to BMI. These tests, such as DEXA scans and bioelectric impedance analysis, are increasingly available in gyms and medical settings. They help individuals track fitness progress more effectively, showing gains in muscle and reductions in body fat, which are important for overall health and longevity.

"Plant-Based Diets Combat Aging Effects on Body Composition"
health-and-wellness2 years ago

"Plant-Based Diets Combat Aging Effects on Body Composition"

A study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that a lower-calorie, plant-forward Mediterranean diet combined with increased physical activity can help reduce body fat and prevent muscle loss in middle-aged and older adults. The study involved 1,521 participants and found that those following the lower-calorie Mediterranean diet with exercise experienced significant reductions in body fat and an increase in lean mass, while those receiving only general dietary advice had minimal changes in body composition. The findings highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy weight and the potential benefits of adopting a plant-forward diet and regular physical activity for improving body composition and overall health as we age.

The Mediterranean Diet: A Powerful Solution for Aging and Body Composition
health2 years ago

The Mediterranean Diet: A Powerful Solution for Aging and Body Composition

A new study from PREDIMED-Plus reveals that following an energy-reduced Mediterranean diet and increasing physical activity can counter aging-related weight gain and muscle loss. The study showed that participants experienced significant improvements in body composition, including a 5% or greater reduction in fat mass and visceral fat mass, and loss of lean muscle mass after just one year. The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes whole foods, vegetables, legumes, healthy fats, and fish, has been touted as the healthiest diet in the world. Incorporating more vegetables and fresh herbs is a key aspect of the diet that is often overlooked. The study highlights the importance of both diet and physical activity in maintaining a healthy body weight and overall health.

The Powerful Combination of Mediterranean Diet and Exercise for Body Composition and Health
health2 years ago

The Powerful Combination of Mediterranean Diet and Exercise for Body Composition and Health

Older adults who followed a lower calorie Mediterranean diet and increased their physical activity experienced improvements in body composition, according to a study published in JAMA Network Open. The study involved 1,521 men and women aged 55 to 75 without a history of cardiovascular events. Participants who followed the Mediterranean diet and engaged in aerobic physical activity had significant reductions in total body fat mass and an increase in total lean mass. These changes are associated with improved health outcomes, such as reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, fish, and lean meats, has numerous health benefits and can help older adults maintain muscle mass while losing body fat.

US doctors shift focus from BMI to holistic approach in assessing healthy weight.
health2 years ago

US doctors shift focus from BMI to holistic approach in assessing healthy weight.

The American Medical Association (AMA) has advised doctors to consider other factors besides BMI in determining whether a patient is at a healthy weight, as the measure does not predict disease risk equally well across racial and ethnic groups. The AMA's new policy also says BMI should not be used as a sole criterion for denying insurance reimbursement.