Rehab

Physical activity more important than weight

Rehab Regs, November 11, 2004

Physical activity may be more of a factor in preventing decline in physical function in elderly women than body weight, according to a recent study published in Preventative Medicine. In the study of 171 women ages 50-65, researchers found that older women who were physically active and overweight or obese had levels of physical function similar to normal-weight older women. Weight loss could be detrimental to health in older people, so it may be best to focus on increasing physical activity rather than concentrating solely on weight loss, according to Preventative Medicine. Researchers measured the physical activity of the women through walking, sport and leisure activities, and activities of daily living.

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