Losing weight could be bad for your health and increase the chances of dying early, an expert has explained. Losing weight is often highlighted as one of the best ways to boost health - and longevity - but it can have the opposite effect, according to Barbara Pierscionek, Professor of Research and Innovation at Anglia Ruskin University.
ProfessorPierscionek said: "Many studies have explored the relationship between weight changes and mortality, as well as mortality in obese people with heart disease. These studies often suggest that excessive weight is unhealthy and that people with obesity and heart disease should lose weight.
"However, findings from a recent study, of which I was a co-author, challenge this assumption. Our research indicates that significant weight loss – greater than 10kg (22lbs) – can actually increase the risk of early death in obese people with cardiovascular disease."
ProfessorPierscionek's s tudy was based on data from over 8,000 participants in the UK Biobank, a comprehensive resource for medical research that includes genetic data. T he weight changes in the study were observed over an average of nine years.
Professor Pierscionek told [The Conversation](https://theconversation.com/the-paradox-of-weight-loss-why-losing-pounds-may-not-always-lead-to-better-health-252397) : " While both obesity and cardiovascular disease are known to increase the risk of early death, in obese people with cardiovascular disease, weight loss – intended to improve health – can have the opposite effect.The relationship between body weight and illness is complex. Though obesity contributes to cardiovascular problems, studies have also shown an increased risk of early death in those with chronic heart failure who are lean, and in people with coronary artery disease whose weight fluctuates.
"Obesity rates are rising, but simply focusing on weight loss may not be the answer."
ProfessorPierscionek said the conventional approach to healthy weight – using body mass index (BMI) – may not apply to everyone, adding: "Some people may tolerate higher weights without adverse health effects. The real question isn’t how quickly weight should be lost, but how quickly it should be lost for each person.
"Given the current evidence, we cannot accurately determine an ideal weight range that’s universally beneficial for health. However, intriguing patterns are emerging from various countries.
"For instance, Tonga has a high rate of obesity, yet it experiences significantly lower rates of heart-disease-related deaths than many European countries where obesity is less prevalent. Tonga also reports lower levels of alcohol consumption and suicide than most European nations.
"Health encompasses both physical and mental wellbeing. Shifting the focus to holistic wellbeing and happiness may offer more lasting health benefits. Treating obesity requires a comprehensive approach, addressing all underlying factors contributing to the condition."