Maintaining a moderate weight can be harder as people get older. Tips that may help include getting enough sleep, taking regular short breaks at work, and getting tested for underlying conditions that might contribute to weight gain.

For a number of reasons, many people may find it more difficult to lose weight after they turn 50 years old. However, it is still important for older adults to maintain a moderate weight.

Why is it harder to lose weight after 50?

Many factors contribute to why a person may find it more difficult to lose weight once they enter into their 50’s. These factors range from healthy conditions that are likely to occur as people get older to the effect of certain medications. Additionally, one of the effects of aging maybe a slower metabolism, which can also contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.

Here are some ways a person can lose weight and maintain the weight loss after the age of 50 years.

1. Move More

The underlying principle of losing weight is burning more calories than one consumes.

2. Get enough sleep

Many studies have suggested a link between a lack of good quality sleep and obesity.

3. Do not skips meals

It may seem like a good idea to skip meals to caloric intake, but this can actually prove detrimental to weight loss.

4. Hack the commute

While commuting, try parking farther away from work or getting off public transport one stop ahead of one’s regular stop. This can all help someone move more and get in more exercise without too much effort.

5. Enjoy exercise

Finding an exercise they enjoy may be the key to a person continuing to participate in it over the long term.

6. Buddy up

Consider enlisting a friend who shares the same goals.

7. Switch up snacks

Instead of reaching for sugary foods when a person is hungry, they could try reaching for healthier snacks, such as nuts.

8. Set realistic goals

It is important that a person does not try to lose too much weight too quickly or push themselves too hard to hit unrealistic fitness goals.

9. Lift weights

The aging process leads to a loss of muscle mass and strength. This means that weight lifting and strength training can be beneficial for older adults to help maintain a moderate body weight.

10. Use fitness technology

Using a pedometer or smartwatch, a person can track their daily steps. Tracking their steps may help a person feel more motivated as they watch their daily steps increase over time.

11. Pack in the protein

Eating more protein when trying to lose weight can help older adults lose more fat and keep more muscle mass than if they eat a lower protein diet.

12. Lower stress

Researchers have linked high stress to food cravings and excessive food intake.

13. Fill up on fruits and vegetables

A higher intake of fruits and vegetables is linked to better muscle function.

14. Opt for whole grains

One way to lose more weight is to cook using healthy ingredients. For example, rather than opting for processed foods, a person should choose whole grains.

15. Hire a personal trainer

A lack of motivation may prevent a person from losing weight after the age of 50 years, but hiring a personal trainer may help.

16. Take up yoga

The gentle forms of exercise (yoga) can help a person lose weight.

17. Eat mindfully

Often, people eat while doing other things.

18. Cut of sugary drinks

Consuming carbonated sugary drinks such as soda, or even “healthy” drinks such as store-bought smoothies, can mean that a person is drinking a lot more sugar than they may be aware of.

19. Eat out less

20. Get tested

Conclusion

If a person is still finding it difficult to lose weight after the age of 50 years, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional for checkup.