As we journey through life, our bodies undergo countless changes, and one of the most common challenges encountered during old age is the increasing difficulty of shifting our weight. While this process may seem daunting, understanding why weight loss becomes harder with age can help us make informed choices to maintain a positive outlook on our well-being.
Factors Affecting Weight
- Slower metabolism
As we age, so does our metabolism. Weight gets harder to shed with age as metabolism slows down, causing our body to burn even fewer calories. This means that the calorie deficit required for actual weight loss needs to be more significant than the previous years.
- Loss of lean muscle mass
As muscle works as our body’s calorie-burning engine, aging tends to decrease our muscle mass. Even when we’re active, with less muscle mass, our bodies don’t burn calories as much. Incorporating strength training into your routine can help boost metabolism and fight muscle loss.
- Hormonal changes
Hormonal fluctuations can strongly influence both weight gain and weight loss. For women, menopause can trigger a decrease in estrogen and put the body in a fat-storing mode, especially around the abdomen.
Similarly, when men experience a decrease in testosterone levels, it can impact their muscle mass and metabolism.
- Lifestyle factors
With age, physical limitations, work demands, and stressful work hours can cause us to become more sedentary. This lack of physical movement can cause weight gain. However, efforts to be more active can counteract these effects and support our weight loss.
- Dietary choices/habits
Our dietary preferences can change over the years and result in increased consumption of more calorie-dense foods. It’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes, make healthier food choices, and stay hydrated.
- Stress and Sleep
Chronic stress and an unhealthy sleep cycle can impact our weight and optimal well-being. They can also disrupt hormonal balance and increase junk food cravings.
Mindful stress-reduction practices and quality sleep can be instrumental to successful weight management.
While weight loss does prove to be more challenging with age, remember to approach the journey with a positive outlook. One can seek support from a fitness community, or healthcare professionals, or find a workout buddy to stay on track. Age may present new challenges, but it’s also a sign to celebrate your body’s resilience and endless support.