Assessment of Body Composition and Physical Function

Assessment of Body Composition and Physical Function in Older Adults With Obesity

Sarcopenia, which is the loss of muscle mass and strength or physical function, naturally occurs in aging. In sarcopenic obesity, growth of muscle mass and increments in strength do not parallel weight gain, and places older adults at increased risk of falls, fractures, physical disability, frailty, and mortality from too low muscle strength relative to body size. The goal of the study is to assess body composition and physical function in older adults with obesity.

This is a cross-sectional study in 40 adults aged 60 to 80 years with obesity. Body composition, physical function, and insulin resistance will be measured. Subjects who satisfy the eligibility criteria and sign the informed consent will be enrolled. Subjects will complete an assessment of body composition by bioelectrical impedance analysis and tests of physical performance. Blood will be drawn for measurement of fasting glucose and insulin.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Body mass index > 30kg/m2
• Age 60 - 80 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• self-reported history of diabetes, or cancer or significant cardiovascular or hepatic or renal disease or dysfunction.
• clinically significant gastrointestinal malabsorption syndromes such as chronic diarrhea, or celiac disease.