How does physical activity affect the nutritional status of older adults?

Physical activity plays a crucial role in enhancing the nutritional status of older adults, primarily by helping to maintain weight and muscle mass. As individuals age, they naturally experience a decline in muscle mass and strength, a condition known as sarcopenia. Engaging in regular physical activity, particularly strength training exercises, can mitigate these effects by promoting muscle hypertrophy, which supports overall functionality and independence in older adults.

Additionally, physical activity boosts metabolic functions, encouraging better energy balance and utilization of nutrients. This is particularly important for older adults who may experience altered metabolic rates or diminished appetite. By aiding in the maintenance of muscle mass, physical activity encourages a healthy body weight, which is vital in preventing obesity, sarcopenic obesity, and related chronic diseases.

The other options do not adequately capture the comprehensive benefits of physical activity on the nutritional status of older adults. While appetite might be affected by physical activity, it is not the sole factor; hence, simply stating it "increases appetite only" overlooks the broader impacts. The notion that physical activity has "no effect on nutrition" is incorrect, as numerous studies have demonstrated its positive influence on overall nutritional health. Furthermore, the idea that it "reduces metabolism" is misleading, as physical activity tends to