Final answer:
The rise in BMI during middle age is primarily due to the fact that middle-aged individuals tend to gain fat and lose muscle, which contributes to higher BMIs. This decrease in muscle mass and increase in fat mass can be attributed to several factors, including a decline in metabolic rate and reduced physical activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rise in BMI during middle age is primarily due to the fact that middle-aged individuals tend to gain fat and lose muscle, which contributes to higher BMIs. This decrease in muscle mass and increase in fat mass can be attributed to several factors, including a decline in metabolic rate and reduced physical activity. As the human body's metabolic rate decreases with age, there is a natural decline in lean muscle mass, which leads to a slower metabolism and a higher BMI. It is important to note that BMI measurements have limitations and do not take into account factors such as fat distribution and fitness level.