Losing weight would be more dangerous than fattening up for the elderly, reveals a study published in the American medical journal JAMA Network Open.
According to the researchers, losing weight after reaching a certain age increases the risk of dying, particularly in men.
The study was carried out between 2010 and 2014 among 17,000 Australians aged 70 and over and 2,000 Americans aged 65 and over. Each participant was weighed annually.
“Our study reveals that a 5% weight loss increases the risk of dying,” explained the author of the study, Dr. Monira Hussain.
In contrast, weight gain in healthy older adults could not be associated with any negative effects.
Researchers indicate that weight loss can increase the risk of dying, as it is often a sign of a health condition such as cancer or dementia.
A senior who loses weight often has a loss of appetite, which can be caused by inflammation or a hormonal problem. In some cases, weight loss may be a consequence of the isolation experienced by the elderly person.
Experts recommend that seniors monitor any changes in weight (gain or loss) and notify their doctor so that medical tests can be carried out.