With age, what generally occurs in terms of metabolic rate?

As individuals age, it is generally observed that their metabolic rate declines. This decrease in metabolic rate can be attributed to several physiological changes that occur with aging. One of the primary reasons for the decline is the loss of muscle mass, which typically happens as people grow older. Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue, meaning that individuals with higher muscle mass tend to have a higher resting metabolic rate.

Additionally, hormonal changes that accompany aging can also influence metabolism. For example, the production of hormones, such as testosterone and growth hormone, often decreases with age, which can further contribute to a reduction in muscle mass and a corresponding decline in metabolic rate.

This reduction can have implications for weight management and dietary needs in older adults, as a lower metabolic rate means fewer calories are required to maintain weight. Understanding this aspect of metabolism is crucial for developing appropriate nutrition and fitness plans for aging individuals.