Body Fat Peaks Earlier in the UK and US Than in Taiwan
Graded Preliminary — one-time measurements of almost 50,000 adults in three countries; since each person was measured only once, the data cannot show change within an individual.
- Design
- Cross-sectional study
- Participants
- 49,552
- Duration
- —
- Funding
- Taiwan National Science and Technology Council; Taiwan Ministry of Education…
In the UK and US, people aged 55 to 59 carried the most body fat, while in Taiwan the peak came in those aged 60 to 64.
As people age, the balance between muscle and fat shifts. The timing of that shift differs from country to country. In the UK and the US, people aged 55 to 59 carried the most body fat. In Taiwan, the peak came later, in those aged 60 to 64. In older groups, fat mass was 10 to almost 24 percent lower.
Researchers analysed data from almost 50,000 adults in three large national health studies. They compared age groups on arm and leg muscle, body fat, grip strength and blood values. Taiwanese men had less muscle in their arms and legs. Relative to their fat, though, they had more muscle than the other groups. One pattern held everywhere. The inflammation marker CRP was up to 90 percent higher in people aged 75 to 79 than in those aged 45 to 49. The growth factor IGF-1, which helps build tissue, was about 20 percent lower.
The authors argue for separate reference values for different populations. But each person was measured only once. So the data cannot show how one individual loses fat and muscle over the years. Differences between generations, and the fact that healthier people live longer, may shape the patterns.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.