University College London study finds modest weight loss improves midlife health

A longitudinal study conducted by researchers at University College London (UCL) suggests that losing at least 5% of peak body weight by age 50 can significantly improve long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Analyzing data from approximately 6,300 participants from the National Child Development Study, researchers tracked individuals born in Britain in 1958. The study mapped body mass index trajectories from age 23 to identify peak weights and evaluated health outcomes through age 62.

Findings indicate that overweight or obese adults who achieved a 5% weight reduction by age 50 and maintained it through age 55 showed heart health markers comparable to those who maintained a healthy weight throughout adulthood. In contrast, individuals who remained obese or experienced frequent weight cycling exhibited the poorest blood pressure, inflammation, and lipid profiles by age 62.