NASA astronaut Sunita Williams addresses weight loss rumours from Space
Recent photos of Williams, who has been unable to return to Earth due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, sparked speculation about her appearance, with some health experts noting a seemingly "gaunt" look.
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has responded to growing concerns about her health after over five months on the International Space Station (ISS). Recent photos of Williams, who has been unable to return to Earth due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, sparked speculation about her appearance, with some health experts noting a seemingly “gaunt” look. In a recent live video from space, Williams aimed to clear the air.
Dismissing Rumours with Humour
Williams, 59, addressed the speculation directly, dismissing it as “rumors.” She assured viewers that she has maintained her pre-flight weight and joked that she has actually gained muscle. “My thighs are a little bit bigger, my butt is a little bit bigger. We do a lot of squats,” she shared, downplaying concerns about her condition.
She explained the apparent changes in her appearance as a result of what’s known as “fluid shift.” In the weightlessness of space, fluids in the body redistribute, often making astronauts’ faces appear puffier and their lower bodies look slimmer. “Folks in space, you know, their heads look a little bit bigger because the fluid evens out along the body,” Williams added.
Stranded in Space: A Prolonged Mission
Williams and her crewmate, Barry Wilmore, 61, have been on the ISS since June. Their mission was initially set to last just eight days, but issues with the Starliner spacecraft forced an extended stay, now projected to last until February 2025. The prolonged stay has fuelled concerns, particularly as the pair must rely on limited supplies and resources.
During an interview with the New England Sports Network Clubhouse Kids Show, Williams offered further insights into life on the ISS. She described meals that include dishes like Turkish fish stew, though she avoided discussing her exact caloric intake. Still, NASA insiders reportedly worry that she may not be getting enough calories, critical for maintaining muscle mass and overall health in space.
Health Experts Weigh In
A photo of Williams taken on September 24, showing her with what appeared to be sunken cheeks, intensified concerns. Dr. Vinay Gupta, a pulmonologist, suggested that her appearance might indicate weight loss, though he clarified that her life did not appear in danger. Another unnamed NASA source reportedly confirmed these concerns, adding that efforts are underway to help Williams maintain her weight.
Unique Challenges for Female Astronauts
Research indicates that female astronauts face unique physiological challenges in space. NASA’s studies show that women experience more significant losses in blood plasma volume and muscle mass than men, which may account for some of Williams’ health concerns. Dr. Gupta elaborated, noting that extended space missions strain the body, even in a pressurized cabin, which could explain Williams’ appearance.
For now, Williams and Wilmore are scheduled to return to Earth on a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft in early 2025. NASA remains hopeful that they can maintain their health until then, despite the extended stay and inherent challenges of life in microgravity.
