By Dra. Patricia Santiago
Obesity is one of the most common health problems today and, according to the Vigitel 2023 survey by the Ministry of Health, one in four people in Brazil is obese. Although generally associated with younger adults, obesity has increasingly affected older people, bringing additional complications, such as an increased risk of sarcopenia.
Sarcopenia is the gradual loss of muscle mass, strength and function, a condition generally related to aging that can significantly impact mobility, the ability to perform daily activities and quality of life. This process can be aggravated by factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, chronic diseases and, in some cases, obesity itself.
Sarcopenic Obesity: When Obesity and Sarcopenia Coexist
In obese individuals, the accumulation of body fat may be accompanied by a reduction in muscle mass, a condition known as “sarcopenic obesity.” When obesity and sarcopenia occur together, they can create additional health challenges, impacting balance, mobility, and overall well-being.
Common Symptoms of Sarcopenia
- Muscle weakness;
- Decreased muscle mass;
- Difficulty lifting objects;
- Reduced mobility;
- Excessive fatigue;
- Loss of balance;
- Increased risk of falls.
The Relationship Between Obesity and Sarcopenia
The connection between obesity and sarcopenia is complex and influenced by several factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, one of the main aggravating factors. A sedentary lifestyle can accelerate the loss of muscle mass, even in obese people. In addition, obesity can be associated with a chronic inflammatory state, which negatively affects muscles and metabolism.
Other factors such as insulin resistance and poor diet also play a role in this relationship. Poor diet quality can contribute to muscle loss and, when combined with aging and obesity, increases the risk of developing sarcopenia.
Understanding and managing this interaction between obesity and sarcopenia is essential to promoting a healthier old age, preserving mobility and autonomy in daily routines.
