DavidWolfe.comMany people tend to gain weight as they age, but aging alone isn’t to blame. While aging does cause your metabolism to slow down, the weight often piles on because people become less active as they get older. Eating the right foods while keeping your mind and body active can help keep age related weight gain at bay, keeping you looking and feeling young, healthy, and vibrant!
Here are five habits that help you avoid weight gain as you get older:
1. Stay Physically Active
One way to balance out your slower metabolism is to stay physically active as you age. Regular exercise will help keep off the extra pounds while also strengthening your muscles and joints to help you stay strong. You don’t have to hit the weights to stay active. Choose the stairs instead of the elevator, park a little farther from your destination and take the dog for a long walk every evening. Every little bit helps!
2. Stay Mentally Active
Memory problems are a common sign of aging, but there is something you can do to keep them at bay. Activities such as reading, doing crossword puzzles and playing chess can help stimulate different parts of the brain to boost memory and concentration. Staying physically active can also help prevent stress and depression, which can lead to weight gain. Keeping your mind sharp can help maintain your overall quality of life.
3. Monitor Your Health
Many different health problems are associated with age, such as hypertension and osteoporosis. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to see a doctor. Getting regular check-ups can help you maintain your health and take care of a problem as soon as it arises. The healthier you are, the more active you can stay to deter weight gain.
4. Eat Healthy Foods
A key part of maintaining a healthy weight is to eat a balanced diet. Ditch the sugar and fast food and opt for whole foods instead. Flavonoid-rich foods in particular have a positive effect on the weight loss. Add berries, grapes, tea, apples, onions and broccoli to your diet to help maintain a healthy weight!
5. Start Now!
Don’t make the mistake of thinking you don’t need to worry about a healthy lifestyle until your metabolism slows down and you start gaining weight. In order to maintain your health and prevent unwanted weight gain, it’s important to introduce healthy habits into your life as soon as possible. So fill your fridge with healthy foods and get moving!
Sources:
Bright Side
Alzheimer’s Association
CNN
Europe PMC