A recent study has stated the obvious: a combination of diet and exercise are the most beneficial for weight loss in people over the age of 65. Interestingly, until now no one had conducted a study to test this strategy for that age group. Now we know for sure. The common sense approach works!
As the years pass, a slow accumulation of weight can result in significant weight gain by the time some reach old age. A slow metabolism means eating the same amount of calories you did in younger years and not experiencing any weight gain – not the case anymore! It also appears that as people age, they become significantly less active. Little aches and pains, added weight and increased fatigue keep many glued to the couch.
It is a well proven fact that weight loss can only occur when calorie intake is less than calorie output. This can be achieved by reducing the number of calories consumed or by increasing calorie expenditure. The best way to lose those stubborn pounds is to combine these strategies while improving your diet and starting a regular exercise routine.
The goal of weight loss diets is not just to lose weight as quickly as possible, but to eat a healthy, balanced diet that supports weight loss and optimal health. As we age, many chronic diseases take hold. For example, problems such as memory loss and high blood sugar levels can occur. Diet and exercise have been shown to help alleviate many of these problems. Therefore, it is important to address these problems along with the means to lose weight. This means eating plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, lean meats, whole grains, and cold-water fish. These foods are naturally lower in calories than highly processed foods and are packed with vital nutrients.
Exercise has been shown to reverse type 2 diabetes, improve cardiovascular function, help sharpen mental abilities, and accelerate weight loss. Finding an exercise routine that you enjoy is the key to sticking with it. If you hate going to a smelly gym, find another activity. It is also not necessary to invest in a lot of equipment. Walking is a perfect exercise, it provides a good cardiovascular workout and gently burns those calories. Even if you get off the couch and do some gardening or housework, your muscles will continue to work.
Swimming is a form of exercise that is perfectly suited for older people. The buoyancy of the body in the water relieves stress on the joints that can occur from walking or other forms of exercise. Many local senior centers and health clubs have heated pools for swimming year-round. Hotels sometimes offer memberships to their groups. Dance classes are another fun way to increase movement.
As you lose weight by eating healthy and exercising, you’ll be amazed at the additional benefits. Mood improves along with energy levels. The joints become less stiff and many aches and pains simply disappear. A feeling of accomplishment puts a smile on his face as he watches the numbers on the scale go down!