Adding weight may reduce the chance of mortality for diabetic individuals, according to a study

Keeping a healthy weight has long been a key component of diabetes treatment for those navigating the complications of type 2 diabetes. However, a new study provides fresh insights into weight control techniques, especially for older adults.

While maintaining an optimum body mass index (BMI) is important for younger people with type 2 diabetes, older people may need to take alternative precautions, according to research based on health data from the UK Biobank. The research shows that, in contrast to popular belief, those over 65 may benefit from being “moderately overweight” in order to lower their risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

The results, led by Chinese physician Dr. Shaoyong Xu of Xiangyang Central Hospital, cast doubt on the one-size-fits-all strategy for managing weight in people with type 2 diabetes. Keeping a BMI between 23 and 25 was linked to the lowest risk of cardiovascular death for people 65 years of age and younger. A BMI of 26–28, which indicates moderate overweight, was associated with the lowest risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, however, among those over 65.

Importantly, we show that age-related variations in optimum BMI for individuals with type 2 diabetes exist, regardless of conventional cardio-metabolic risk factors, said Dr. Xu. The research indicates that aiming for weight reduction may not be as advantageous for older adults as maintaining a moderately overweight position.

For those with type 2 diabetes and healthcare professionals, this discovery has important ramifications. It emphasises the need for individualised weight control strategies based on age and unique health conditions.

But it’s important to remember that keeping a healthy weight is still essential for lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease, especially for those with type 2 diabetes, who are naturally more susceptible to these issues. Research on type 2 diabetes, including over 22,000 people in the UK Biobank, is crucial to improving our knowledge of the health consequences associated with weight.

Future research in this area may examine core obesity metrics like waist circumference in more detail to improve risk assessment and treatment techniques.