Sunita Williams Addresses Health Rumors Amidst Space Mission on ISS

Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), recently addressed health rumors following her months in space.

In a November 12 interview with the New England Sports Network (NESN), she provided an update on her physical condition.

Williams, part of NASA's Artemis program since June, clarified rumors about weight loss after some photos made her appear "gaunt."

She explained that while her body has adapted to the effects of microgravity, her weight remains stable.

Williams explained that while her body has changed slightly due to microgravity, her weight has stayed the same.

“I think my body has changed a little bit, but I weigh the same,” she said. She added that the rumors about her losing weight were not true. "I am actually right at the same weight that I was when I got up here," she explained.

Adapting to Life in Microgravity

Living in space comes with noticeable effects on the body. One change Williams described is the redistribution of bodily fluids. This can cause astronauts’ heads to appear larger.

"We’ve been up here for a couple of months, working out," Williams said. She mentioned that they have a bike, treadmill, and weight-lifting equipment on the ISS. Williams noted that weightlifting, which isn’t part of her usual routine, has led to her body changing. "I could definitely tell that weightlifting has changed me," she said. "My thighs are a little bit bigger, and my body is a little bit bigger."

Bone Health in Space

Williams also talked about bone health in space. Without gravity, astronauts lose bone density, especially in the spine, hips, and legs.

On Earth, gravity helps keep bones strong, but in space, astronauts can lose 1-2% of bone mass every month.

To prevent this, astronauts do daily exercises like weightlifting, squats, and treadmill workouts. However, stopping bone loss completely is still difficult.

This can increase the risk of fractures and long-term bone conditions like osteoporosis.

Williams’ update reassures the public that she is in good health.Her mission is contributing to important research that will help astronauts stay healthy during future space missions to the Moon and Mars.