‘My body has changed’: Sunita Williams shares latest health updates after months in space | World news

Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, currently on board the International Space Station (ISS), has opened up about the physical changes she experiences after spending several months in microgravity. In a recent interview with the New England Sports Network (NESN), Williams addressed health concerns and rumors of significant weight loss, offering insight into her condition and adjustment to life in space.

Dispelling weight loss rumors

Williams, who has been aboard the ISS since June as part of NASA’s Artemis program, acknowledged concerns raised by recent images showing her looking thinner. To clarify these misconceptions, she said, “I think my body has changed a little, but I weigh the same. There are rumors that I am losing weight, but I am at the same weight as when I got here.”

The change in appearance, she explained, is due to the effects of living in microgravity, including a redistribution of body fluids. In space, fluids tend to move upward, which often makes astronauts’ faces appear fatter while their lower bodies appear slimmer.

The role of exercise in space

To counteract the effects of microgravity, astronauts follow a rigorous exercise regimen, a crucial part of life aboard the ISS. Williams went into more detail about her workouts, which include cycling, running on the treadmill and lifting weights. She noted that weightlifting, a relatively new practice for her, has led to visible changes in her physique.

“My thighs are a little bigger, my body feels a little different. We do a lot of squats to maintain bone density, especially in the hips and feet,” Williams said. Resistance exercises, she explained, are essential for maintaining bone strength and mitigating the effects of prolonged time in space.

The impact of microgravity on the human body

The absence of gravity poses unique challenges for astronauts, especially when it comes to bone health. Without the constant force of gravity, weight-bearing bones such as those in the spine, hips and legs can lose 1-2% of their mass per month. This loss significantly increases the risk of fractures and conditions such as osteoporosis.

Williams emphasized the importance of daily resistance training, which helps combat bone density loss. Despite these efforts, she admitted that completely preventing bone loss remains a challenge, underscoring the need for further research into long-term solutions.

A mission with long-term goals

As part of NASA’s Artemis program, Williams is contributing to critical scientific research that will pave the way for human exploration of the moon and Mars. Her experiences and health updates not only reassure the public about her well-being, but also provide valuable insights for future space missions.

Williams’ resilience and adaptability highlight the challenges and triumphs of life in space, inspiring confidence in the progress being made on humanity’s journey beyond Earth.