While almost any age group is now becoming much more conscious about their weight those that are past the age of 50 have some real issues with not only keeping their weight in control but losing the excess weight that they have accumulated over the years.
There are a lot of reasons why those in this age group may be struggling with excess weight. Quite often many of these individuals have slowed down in their activity level. They are no longer playing the sports that they once did. They may be early retirees such as the baby boomers, and as a result, they are simply not as active as they once were.
Also, at this age, the metabolism seems to slow down so the fat-burning process is not as effective as it once was. One of the biggest mitigating factors about the excess weight gain for this age group is that they don’t adjust their eating habits to the changing metabolism that they are experiencing.
Now understanding why the 50 age group has such an issue with weight, there need to be some solutions for this. It’s time to take a look at some weight training which may seem a little strange as you are not out to impress anyone with a super figure or amazing physique at this age most likely. However, what has to be realized is that at this age the body has about 20% less muscle mass compared to when you were 20. Muscle loss means a slower metabolism. By implementing a weight training routine that is applicable to your level of exercise capabilities you will be able to increase your muscle mass and start the weight loss process effectively.
Something else that will help with the weight loss after 50 is to make sure that your hormones have been checked and that they are at the proper levels. As we age our testosterone and progesterone as well as other hormones begin to diminish. They need to be brought in to balance and this is where your health care professional will play an important role.
You also need to be conscious of what your body is capable of at this age. Taking on an exercise program is definitely a good move but you have to be joint conscious. This means that you have to realize that the joints of your body may not be as strong and as agile as they once were. Just the normal aches and pains that you are experiencing could limit your exercise. What you want to do here is focus on some joint strengthening resources to help build up the joint strength once again. Swimming and walking or bike riding are some great activities to help with this.
You want to make sure that before you start any diet regime or exercise program that you have been cleared physically by your healthcare provider. Once this is done then you are ready to make the lifestyle changes that are going to be necessary to help you with your weight loss.
You are definitely going to have to focus on your diet and perhaps consider decreasing the amount that you’re eating because you are burning fewer calories. Creating a healthy diet regime means cutting out the junk and fatty foods that you may have become used to eating over the years. It takes a little bit of work and effort on your part but it will certainly pay off with the weight loss that you will experience.