Midlife Weight Loss Could Have Long-term Health Benefits

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A recent investigation from the University of Helsinki suggests that modest, sustained weight loss in early middle age can lead to significant long-term health benefits. The data was drawn from a larger study that followed over 23,000 adults ages 30 to 50 from Finland and the UK over a period of 12 to 35 years, making it one of the longest and largest of its kind.

Participants who were overweight at the start, lost an average of 6.5 percent of their body weight, and then maintained that weight loss showed improved long-term health outcomes, including lower rates of chronic diseases and a reduced risk of dying. The findings underscore that weight maintenance — not just weight loss — is essential for reaping lasting health benefits.