Weight loss increases fracture risk says new research

Weight loss can result in worsening bone density, bone architecture and bone strength, experts outline in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.

“We showed that men and women with both shorter term weight loss over four to six years and longer term weight loss over 40 years had more micro-architectural deterioration of their bones than persons who did not lose weight,” explains Dr Douglas Kiel, who led the work.

The changes to the skeleton showed that people who lost 5% or more body weight over 40 years were nearly three times more likely to experience fracture.

“Older adults who are losing weight should be aware of the potential negative effects on the skeleton and may want to consider counteracting these effects through interventions such as weight-bearing exercise and eating a balanced diet,” highlights Dr Elizabeth Samelson, senior author. “Given that weight loss is highly common in older adults, further work is needed to evaluate if these bone deficits can be prevented through interventions or therapy.”

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