A veteran of numerous space flights, Sunita Williams is currently a member of NASA's Starliner program at the International Space Station (ISS)

Her fitness and health updates have gained attention from all over the world, especially after some recent photos sparked controversy about her appearance changes

Here's how her body responds to space all you need to know about:

The fluid redistribution phenomenon is one of the most obvious changes astronauts experience. Body fluids are drawn downward by gravity on Earth, whereas they go towards the head and upper body in space

As a result, astronauts' features appear puffier, and their heads appear broader. Although her "sunken cheeks" may seem concerning, Sunita Williams has pointed out that they are only a normal adaptation to microgravity

Because the skeletal system and muscles behave differently in space than they do on Earth, her body is also changing in other ways, such as posture and muscle tone

Weight loss rumors Concerns regarding Sunita Williams' health have been sparked by recent images of her seeming thinner. In response, she stated, "I weigh the same as I did when I arrived at the ISS"

Using specialist equipment, NASA weighs astronauts in orbit to make sure they are healthy. Williams informed everyone that her apparent weight loss was simply an optical illusion induced by fluid shift and muscle distribution alterations

Muscle and bone density One of the most difficult issues astronauts encounter is muscle and bone loss owing to the lack of gravitational pressure

Williams stated that repeated squats and other weightlifting workouts have strengthened her thighs and glutes, which she credits with helping her maintain bone density

Skin and eye changes Long-term exposure to the space environment results in fewer evident health changes

Swelling around the eyes can impair eyesight. The medical staff at NASA is keeping a close eye on these impacts and regularly updates the crew on their health

Not only is space living physically demanding, but it is also mentally taxing. Technical difficulties with their spacecraft recently forced Williams and her crewmate Barry Willmore to remain on the ISS for an extended period of time