Obesity is quickly becoming the number-one killer in the United States, closely trailing heart disease. As people age, changes in health and activity level can quickly lead to obesity. Co-morbidity factors such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disorders add to the danger of being markedly overweight. Remaining active and paying attention to food choices as you age can avoid the issue altogether. Your physician can advise you as to what a normal weight range would be, as well as provide a referral to a nutritionist. There are safe steps you can implement and changes you can make to your diet and lifestyle to treat or prevent obesity.
Calorie and nutritional needs change as you age. Be sure that your intake is not exceeding what you expend. For some, counting calories is the answer to combating obesity. Others may find success with using meal-replacement bars or shakes. However, the most successful method is to make permanent changes to your eating habits. By utilizing low-calorie, high-nutrient substitutions, such as snacking on vegetables rather than potato chips, your weight will decrease slowly and safely over time.
A sedentary life can allow your weight to become unmanageable. As you become heavier, activity decreases, creating a vicious cycle. While signing up at a gym is admirable, many new arrivals feel frustrated when results are slow in coming. It is easier to incorporate activity into your everyday routine by parking farther from building entrances, taking the stairs instead of the elevator and enjoying long walks with your dog or partner. This can help you to burn off pounds without taking hours out of your day. People of all ages benefit from activity, but the elderly especially need to exercise to avoid bone loss and cardiovascular disease.
For those who are already overweight, these simple changes can stop you from becoming obese. Should you already be combating obesity, making small adjustments in your everyday life can help you get the weight off safely. Both groups can benefit from a regimen of a healthy diet and moderate exercise every day.