Losing weight is not just for young people. If you are overweight, it’s probably taking a toll on your joints, putting you at high risk for a variety of medical conditions, and lowering your quality of life. Losing weight – even 5 to 10 pounds – can tremendously help you get healthier.
Weight loss can be a difficult task at any age, but as you get older, it becomes harder. The reality is, your body acts differently as you get older. So, by the time you are in your 40s, losing weight will require different steps on your part than it did when you were in your 20s.
Let’s take a look at some tips you can use to help with weight loss after the age of 40.
Mind Your Portions
If you plan to lose weight, you need to make changes to your diet and what you eat. Eating healthy foods in smaller portions is the best way to go. Don’t undervalue the importance of what you eat. Healthy proteins, fruits, and vegetables are critical components to a healthy diet. Make sure to eat a lot of those. Steer away from processed and junk foods that offer little nutritional value but are filled with empty calories. Keep your portion size in mind when eating. Measure out your food to ensure you’re really eating the recommended portion. You can also invest in smaller plates and bowls that are appropriately sized for portion control.
Build Muscle, Lose Fat
As you get older, your body begins to lose bone and muscle mass more easily. These elements are critical for long-term good health. Make sure to exercise to build good muscle mass, strengthen your body, but also, to lose weight. Talk to a physical trainer to ensure you are exercising to lose fat, not muscle.
Be More Physically Active
One of the biggest reasons we gain weight as we age is because our physical activities decrease. If you have medical conditions (such as arthritis, back pain, etc.) that prevent you from exercising and having hobbies that keep you on your feet, seek treatment for them. If your condition prevents you from exercising at a gym, find alternative activities (like swimming) that don’t take a toll on your joints but still help you break a sweat.
Hormonal changes (menopause) also bring a lot of changes to your life. A lot of women experience sluggishness, fatigue, and slowed metabolism as their hormones change with age. Talk to your doctor about these issues and find ways to maintain good mental and physical health. There is a lot you can do to balance your hormones and manage symptoms associated with menopause.
Seek Medical Advice
Losing weight on your own can be a big challenge. Fortunately, there are medical professionals who can help. Through medical weight loss, you can lose weight quickly and without compromising on your health and wellbeing. If you are struggling to maintain a healthy weight as you get older, talk to a medical professional who specializes in weight loss.
Center For Medical Weight Loss in South Carolina
A highly-skilled and supportive medical expert by your side can help you lose weight safely and effectively. At SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation, our physicians at the Center for Medical Weight Loss (CMWL) can create a comprehensive medical weight loss program that is customized to your needs.
To learn more about our medical weight loss programs, call us at (803) 724-5185 or request an appointment now. We look forward to helping you reach and maintain your weight loss goals.
