What Causes Astronauts to Lose Weight While in Space? Shouldn’t they gain weight due to inactivity?
November 26, 2024
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Although the idea of living in space sounds interesting and wonderful, astronauts experience many more difficulties than you might expect. Because gravity is very low their bodies to
Although the idea of living in space sounds interesting and wonderful, astronauts experience many more difficulties than you might expect. Because gravity is very low their bodies to a completely different world must adapt.
One of the things they experience in such an environment is… weight loss. So what exactly is going on that makes them lose weight in space?
Muscles don’t have to go against gravity.
Astronaut Sunita Williams, who went to space this year and got stuck there
Because gravity in space is at a micro level, muscles, does not have to work against gravity and especially the back and leg muscles become very weak.
In addition, because no pressure is placed on the bones in a zero-gravity environment, the density of the bones decreases and the body becomes by releasing minerals and calcium from the bones It leads to weight loss.
The fact that there is too little gravity affects their metabolism.
The zero-gravity environment changes the body’s metabolism. For example fat metabolism, It may work differently than in the world, and energy consumption changes accordingly.
On the other hand, the digestive system also works differently The pattern of energy intake and expenditure may change.
We cannot ignore nutrition and reduced muscle activity.
Less physical effort is required for astronauts’ daily activities on the International Space Station (ISS). Therefore, calorie burning decreases due to muscle loss There is also weight loss.
Finally; Because there is no gravity, the aromas and smells of food do not reach the astronauts’ noses. Again, because of gravity. fluid slides into the head and their noses become clogged. Given the role of smell in making a meal palatable, it is not surprising that they have no appetite and eat little.
Ashley Johnson is a science writer for “Div Bracket”. With a background in the natural sciences and a passion for exploring the mysteries of the universe, she provides in-depth coverage of the latest scientific developments.