Muscular Build May Reduce Severity of Heart Failure
A new study suggests that compared to those with a greater percentage of body fat, patients with more muscle fare better in the face of heart failure.
More muscle generally indicated improved nutritional status and less severe heart failure, found researchers, which could extend length of life.
Higher body fat was associated with increased inflammation and reduced exercise capacity.
Participants underwent special scans to measure their muscle mass and body fat. The study showed that body mass index (BMI) of heart failure patients doesn’t accurately measure their body fat status. In fact, 41 percent were inaccurately classified by BMI.
The study lends some support to the idea – but does not demonstrate clearly – that those who are treating heart failure patients may wish to recommend weight loss to these patients. This study was published in this month’s issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings and is available to read online, with subscription to the journal at: http://bit.ly/9R1Qj5.
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