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Fat and protein redistribution with aging: metabolic considerations
1Laboratoire de Nutrition Humaine, Université d'Auvergne/INRA and CRNH Auvergne, Clermont Ferrand, France. beaufrer@clermont.inra.fr
European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|October 21, 2000
Summary
Aging accelerates intra-abdominal fat (IAF) accumulation, driving insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk. This review explores the link between increased visceral fat and metabolic dysfunction in aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Cardiovascular Disease
Background:
- Aging causes body composition changes, including increased intra-abdominal fat (IAF) and loss of lean mass (sarcopenia).
- Increased visceral fat is a key factor in developing insulin resistance, type II diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between intra-abdominal fat accumulation and insulin resistance during the aging process.
- To discuss contributing factors such as hormonal changes, physical inactivity, and metabolic alterations.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on aging, body composition, and insulin resistance.
- Brief overview of methods for assessing IAF, highlighting limitations of non-imaging techniques.
Main Results:
- Insulin resistance in aging is primarily linked to IAF accumulation, not aging itself.
- Increased free fatty acid availability/oxidation may mediate the link between IAF and insulin resistance.
- Physical inactivity exacerbates both IAF accumulation and insulin resistance.
Conclusions:
- IAF accumulation is a central determinant of cardiovascular risk in aging.
- The independent roles of menopause and sarcopenia in insulin resistance require further investigation.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for managing age-related metabolic and cardiovascular health.