These data show an age-related remodeling of body composition with reductions in SM and corresponding increases in VAT and IMAT. Changes in the previously unstudied depot of IMAT may be involved in the deterioration of metabolic values frequently observed during aging.

The decline in REE during growth is likely due to both a decrease in the proportion of some of the more metabolically active organs and tissues and changes in the metabolic rate of individual organs and tissues.