Losing weight and staying active are important at any age
Weight gain is a problem that faces many people, and attempts at weight loss can lead to years of struggle and unhappiness. Fad diets and pills may be tempting, but are often ineffective and, when a discouraged dieter gives up, can lead to more weight gain. Fortunately, there are numerous safe and natural ways to shed the pounds. Women over 50 may have specific concerns that warrant discussion with a doctor, such as bone and joint problems, but a healthy diet and exercise combined will help drop unwanted pounds and keep them off.
Eating Healthy
One of the simplest, and most effective, ways for anyone to lose weight is by cleaning up their diet. Avoid soda and candy, and limit your intake of fried foods. Try eating more greens, vegetables and fruits. If struck by the urge to snack, turn to foods like celery or carrots instead of heavily processed snack foods or crackers. Remember, this needs to be a long-term change, not something done for a week or two before giving up. Restricting calories aids safe and healthy weight loss significantly, but must be undertaken with care to ensure the body gets enough nutrition to function properly. The right amount of calories depends on age, current weight, height, gender, and other factors; older women may want to ask their doctor before making any significant changes in diet.
Exercise
Exercise not only aids weight loss, but can also help provide more energy and vitality. There are a wide variety of useful exercises. Women over 50 may want to consider low-impact exercise, such as yoga or pilates, to help with flexibility. Lifting weights benefits women as well, and can address bone density issues. Even something as simple as walking can be of great benefit to an otherwise sedentary woman. Once again, consulting with a doctor is recommended to ensure safety. If joint problems already exist, exercise without proper care may exacerbate them and lead to pain or injury. Take care before embarking on any exercise plan.
Caution
Depending upon current weight and activity levels, women over 50 may want to consult with a doctor before starting an exercise plan or changing their diet significantly to avoid compounding any existing health problems. Doctors may recommend certain supplements, such as calcium, depending on dietary intake.
Good nutrition and exercise combine to help with healthy weight loss. Many fad diets advertise themselves as healthy and natural, but juice fasts and similar diets should be avoided as they may lead to a severe caloric deficit, which can cause further problems. Diet pills and supplements are also best avoided. Appetite suppressants may seem tempting but can have dangerous side effects. Stick to simple, time-tested methods and eat a balanced diet to watch the pounds drop away.
Tags: weight loss, with doctor, current weight, doctor before, exercise plan, healthy weight, healthy weight loss
