Maintaining a moderate weight is important for people of all ages but it is especially essential for older adults. For a number of reasons, many find it challenging trying to lose weight after 50. However, do not make this an excuse to refuse to maintain a moderate weight to help promote good overall body wellness. Here are several safe yet effective ways that can help you to lose weight and maintain a moderate weight after turning 50.
Becoming More Active
The underlying principle of losing weight is to burn more calories than what we consume. Research has linked inactive lifestyles to an increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and poorer general health. One significant factor in many people’s inactive lives is having a job that involves a lot of sitting such as a driver, office worker, or cashier. Studies suggest that taking regular breaks every half an hour can help reduce the amount of time spent sitting down and potentially improve their overall health.
Getting Adequate Sleep
Studies have suggested a link between obesity and a lack of quality sleep. They suggest that poor quality sleep has a correlation with an increased risk of being obese. Making sure that you get adequate sleep each night is important to ensure that you are not exposed to the risk of developing obesity.
Having Regular Meals
Most people believe that skipping meals can lead to lower caloric intake but this can cause detrimental effects which will not lead to weight loss. Studies suggest a link between obesity and skipping meals which means that there is a higher risk of a person gaining even more weight when they skip certain meals. Thus, eating regular well-balanced meals is indeed necessary to promote weight loss.
Getting the Most Out of Commute
While commuting, get off one stop ahead or park farther away than your intended location. This can help you to move more and stay active without needing too much effort. The extra calories that you get to burn daily by walking to your destination can help you to maintain a moderate weight.
Enjoying Exercise
Find an exercise routine that you enjoy doing. This will motivate you to exercise every single day over the long term. Whether it is weight training, yoga, tennis, or others, enjoying exercise can make you feel engaged and make exercising feels like leisure instead of work.
Getting a Buddy
Get a buddy who shares the same interest as you. Studies have shown that losing weight can be made much easier when you have a friend to motivate you along the way so you can both maintain a moderate weight together.
Switching Up Snacks
Instead of snacking on something sweet, reach out for healthier snacks like nuts. Eating healthy portions of snacks regularly does not impact your body weight but snacking on something sugary will lead to weight gain.
Weight Lifting
The aging process can lead to muscle loss and strength. To counter this, lift weights and practice strength training to help you maintain a moderate weight. Weight lifting can also promote bone strength which can reduce the risk of injuries.
