As you age, you undergo a lot of changes both mentally and physically. It becomes increasingly difficult to lose weight as we grow older. The main reason being that metabolism drastically reduces after the age of 55. However, it does not mean that one cannot lose weight altogether. With the proper lifestyle changes, you can have a healthy weight and maintain it too. There are many measures senior citizens can do to achieve weight loss. Below are some ways that may help you lose weight effectively and keep it off.
Weight Loss through Exercise
As we get older our metabolism becomes slower, we must do more exercise in order to lose that extra weight we are carrying around. There are a few tips that might come in handy when trying to lose that extra 20lbs. Exercise plays a key role in weight loss. It is important to get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. You can go for a walk or maybe a swim or light aerobics the choices are limitless. Dancing, cycling, yoga or whatever activity that pleases you, go for it. Your workout can be fun. Day by day as you lose weight, you will feel more energized, vibrant and also look great. You should also engage in some strength training. This way you will build more muscle and be able to lose weight more easily.
Weight Loss through Diet
When it comes to food, low fat or sugar-free foods are not the answer. They are only part of the answer. Your pantry may be full of such food but what count is how much you consume them. These foods are usually high in calories resulting in weight gain. Instead try to substitute your sugar through fruits because these are rich in nutrients and vitamins and their sugars are better digested by the body. Frozen grapes are very refreshing in the summers. You can also have low-fat yogurt which again is very healthy. However, if you need some sugar, go for a sugar substitute. At the same time try to withhold that feeling of a splurge when there is a special occasion. There will always be a birthday or anniversary around. The list is endless. So, unless you have a plan to handle these special occasions, you will be eating over your calorie limits, quite often. You also need to make sure you get enough protein. If your diet contains more protein, then you will surely burn more calories and build more muscle. You can even go for protein supplements.
Other Weight Loss Tips
It is very important to keep yourself well hydrated. Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day. Cutting down fried foods from your diet, pan-fried with minimal oil and grilled food will go a long way in keeping those pounds from creeping back in. For chocolate lovers, opt for dark chocolate because it is low in calories plus heart-healthy!
These small measures taken every day will make a big difference in weight management. With a healthy diet enriched with good foods and regular exercise, not only you will be better in charge of your weight but will feel good about yourself too.
