How Often Should You Weigh? | Weight Loss Photos: Before & After | What is That White Filling in Donuts? | How to Lose One Pound
Mid-Life Weight Gain
|
|
Have you reached the old threshold of life after 50 and have discovered that you are either packing on unwanted pounds OR that your weight scale has to be broken? If so, you're not alone. Mid-life weight gain is something experienced by most individuals over 50.
Causes of Mid-Life Weight Gain
- As we age the metabolism slows. In fact, the older body is not as efficient in most areas as it was in our younger years. A slowing metabolism equates to a slower rate of calorie burn. In turn, weight gain ensues.
- Most Mid-Life individuals' activity levels decrease. In turn, the body requires fewer calories. Although the Mid-Life individual consumes the same number of calories as they did in their 40's, the decrease in activity mandates a lower caloric intake in order to maintain a particular weight.
- Health issues in Mid-Life individuals can trigger weight gain. Examples include: allergies, thyroid imbalances, excess estrogen, and water retention due to kidney or heart issues.
- Certain medications which are used by Mid-Life individuals can also trigger weight gain.
- As individuals grow older they tend to become more relaxed and comfortable with their lifestyle. A cookie here - a cream puff there; what's life without a little spice, eh? The result can equal weight gain.
- Sugar substitutes can also assist in packing on unwanted pounds. In addition, they can also make the body more sensitive so that it experiences allergic reactions to things that never bothered the individual.
- Sodium overload. Excess sodium can trigger temporary false weight gain as it encourages water retention. Water weighs heavily and when the individual experiences water retention, it can place stress on internal organs and our body's operating system.
If you are experiencing unexplained weight gain, meet with your doctor to discuss. Maintaining your desired weight may be as easy as going for a nice daily walk or making healthier choices in your daily diet. As the body ages, it's vital to maintain a healthy weight which places the body at less risk for stroke, cancer, heart issues, diabetes, high blood pressure - as well as other significant health issues and disease. Take care of your body - and life can be longer, more enjoyable and can alleviate unnecessary grief for family members.
|
|