Kosher Fitness
By Michael Ungar
I have blogged many times in the past about maintaining a healthy weight. Obesity leads to many negative health outcomes such as heart disease, stroke, and coronary artery disease. Additionally, there is is a greater risk for Type 2 Diabetes, certain cancers, musculoskeletal disorders, breathing problems, digestive issues, liver and kidney disease, and even menthal health issues. All this, along with a concern with physical appearance, has led to an unhealthy obsession for many with dieting in order to lose weight.
A recent study conducted at University of California – San Diego reported in Journal of Gerentology: Medical Sciences, indicates that women over the age of 60 have a greater chance of living past 90 if they work at maintaining weight rather than losing it. The study of 54,000 women (of whom 56% survived to age 90) showed that a loss of 5% or more of body weight (intentionally or unintentionally) was associated with lower odds of longevity compared to those who kept a stable weight.
This has implications for the way that we view fitness. Even though more studies will be needed—including ones which examine men as well—this new research suggests that we should focus less on exercise and eating right as a means to losing weight, and more as a means to building a healthy lifestyle. It is noteworthy that many gyms still offer Weight Loss Challenges which may encourage unhealthy habits in order to “win” the contest. Other gyms have switched over to Fitness or Healthy Habit Challenges that focus less on the outcome (ie., pounds lost or percentage weight loss) and more on visits to the gym, fitness classes taken, healthy meals eaten, etc. When the aim is to maintain and build a healthy way of life, the goals are often more attainable. What this study from UCSD adds to the mix is that (for older women, at least) the change in focus can actually lead to living longer.
As always, there is a kind of balance to be achieved here. On the one hand, carrying around too much weight has its own hazards. On the other hand, excessive focus on weight loss has its dangers as well.
This is the first study of its kind. More research will hopefully show us more precisely where to put our energy.
This lightly-edited blog with photo was originally published on kosher-fitness.com on 6/18/24 by Rabbi Ungar.
