NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Wilmore’s health conditions deteriorated after six months in space, health experts raised concern
Recent images of NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS) showed that both the astronauts are witnessing serious decline in their health. Williams and Wilmore were in space for an eight-day mission that was extended to six months due to a technical glitch in Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft resulting in a delay in their return. The recent pictures hint at nutritional deficits and physical toll due to extended stay in space.
Sunita Williams loses weight
Weight loss is a common issue among astronauts staying in space for extended periods; the latest images of Williams and Wilmore indicate something similar. It is challenging to maintain body mass as living in a microgravity environment has physical demands that change the function of how the body metabolites nutrients and utilises energy.
Dr Vinay Gupta, a pulmonologist from Seattle, observed that William’s cheeks, apparently sunken, showed signs of low body weight suggesting a calorie deficit in Williams.
Living on the ISS is a challenging task. ISS does not have gravity which results in body and muscle loss. This effect could be mitigated by engaging in daily exercises for around 2.5 hours per day to avoid muscle atrophy and maintain strength. The limited space also impacts sleeping patterns causing physical and psychological stress.
Microgravity’s effect on the body
The microgravity can cause multiple physiological effects on astronauts. On the other end, the reduction in muscle atrophy and bone density can lead to fluid shifts causing swelling in the head and may even impact vision.