Being overweight and obese can lead to severe health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Although seniors who are obese should try to lose weight, weight loss in the elderly can result in the loss of lean muscle and physical strength. As such, losing weight for the elderly has to be done in a safe and methodical way. Here are some weight loss advice for adults in their golden years.
Consult with Your Doctor
Studies show that older adults who are overweight tend to delay going to a doctor for regular health checkups. Older adults living alone and those who live in rural areas where access to health care is limited are particularly at risk. If you know someone approaching their golden years, encourage them to schedule an annual physical check with their doctor so they can be apprised of their weight and health status. With more than 60 percent of people ages 65 and over being overweight or obese, these appointments are essential for maintaining wellness as we age.
Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
Consuming healthy foods that are high in fiber, low in sugar and salt, and rich in vitamins is crucial to maintaining an active lifestyle. When possible, eat at least three meals per day with snacks in between to keep your metabolism functioning properly. Additionally, it’s always best to consume food slowly, so you don’t overeat.
Don’t Skip Breakfast
Skipping Breakfast may mean you’re setting yourself up for hunger later in the day when your energy begins to run out. Eat Breakfast every morning before starting your day so you can burn fat throughout all waking hours instead of depending on just one or two big meals per day. You will also feel more alert and less sluggish throughout the day.
Safe Exercises for Seniors
In terms of weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight, getting in some form of exercise is critical. And that’s not going to change as we age. However, we can do things to make sure our bodies perform well and feel better while working out. If you’re currently training for a half-marathon, keep it up! Once you’ve recovered from injury or illness, start slowly getting back into your exercise routine.
Drink Lots of Water
Everyone knows that staying hydrated is essential for living a healthy life. It’s just as important when it comes to weight loss, too. Drinking a lot of water helps you feel full and allows your body to flush out waste more efficiently. You’ll have minor puffiness around your stomach if you drink at least eight glasses each day. And if you have trouble hitting that number, go ahead and add in unsweetened iced tea or seltzer water—as long as they don’t have any calories or sugar added.
Get Help from Technology
Technology can help in many ways when it comes to weight loss. Web-based programs are readily available, and you can join groups online for support. These groups often require dues, but if you are on a budget, you might find one for free.
Be Patient
You aren’t 20 anymore, so it’s perfectly fine if you need to move at a slower pace than in your youth. Losing weight is not an overnight process; instead, it is an incremental reduction in body mass that can take months or even years to achieve. Be patient with yourself and understand that every little bit counts over time.
