HOW THAT EXTRA STONE COULD AFFECT YOUR HEALTH
Over-50s are more likely to put on weight. This is because lower levels of oestrogen lead to loss of muscle, which leads to a lower metabolic rate. As a result, in midlife, we need to pay attention to both diet and physical activity. Here are some of the health implications:
Blood pressure
There is a strong link between weight and blood pressure. More blood is required to circulate through the body, putting more pressure on the arterial walls. In addition, adipose tissue (body fat) releases hormones and inflammatory compounds, which lead to salt retention and stimulation of the “sympathetic nervous system” (the system involved with our stress response).
Cholesterol
Obesity is linked with high cholesterol and unhealthy blood fats called “low density lipoproteins”, particularly if the fat is deposited around the waist. A high-calorie intake, with too much saturated fat and refined carbohydrate (sugar and starch), increases the level of circulating insulin, and thereby contributes to both obesity and raised cholesterol.
Visceral fat
Some people, due to a combination of genetics, unhealthy diet, and/or lack of exercise, are prone to carry fat around their organs, known as visceral fat. This is particularly unhealthy as it is readily metabolised by the liver, causing unhealthy fats to circulate in the blood. Unhealthy fats have a lower density than healthy ones, meaning that they are more likely to adhere to the lining of arteries, causing narrowing and potentially leading to blockage. This increases the risk of heart disease, strokes, and peripheral arterial disease. Ideally one should have a waist/height ratio of less than 50 per cent. This is easier for those with a “pear” rather than “apple” shaped body.
Other health considerations
Carrying excess weight increases the risk of insulin resistance, potentially leading to type 2 diabetes. Being overweight also increases the risk of many types of cancer (notably breast, bowel, womb, and pancreas), heart disease, strokes, gall stones, gout and sleep apnoea. The increased risk of cancer is due to the fact that fat cells produce growth hormones and inflammatory chemicals, which cause cells to divide more often. Fat cells also produce oestrogen, potentially increasing the risk of cancer in hormone-sensitive organs, such as breast and uterus.