Losing weight is not easy no matter who you are and the harsh reality is that it only gets harder as time goes on. But, as challenging as it may seem, it is still possible to lose weight as a time-crunched adult, and there are ways to make the process more feasible and even enjoyable. So, if you’ve hit that midlife milestone and are looking to lead a healthier life, here is a breakdown of some of the best ways to lose weight after 50.
Enjoying Your Workout
Despite what others might claim, there are no cheats to losing weight and this is true for the best ways to lose weight after 50. If you want to get rid of excess body fat in a healthy way, you are going to need to dedicate some time to exercising.
However, that doesn’t mean your workouts have to be something you dread doing. Consistency is key when it comes to exercise and if you pick an activity you enjoy, it will make going for a workout much easier – especially on the days when you’re feeling tired or unmotivated.
Try to find an activity that’s the right fit for you. If you feel self-conscious at the gym then don’t force yourself to go to one. Try going for long walks, jogs or hikes outside instead. Even a 30-minute walk around your neighborhood every day would be a great way to burn some calories.
Or, if you’re the type who prefers going to the gym but you feel bored with the usual treadmill and weights, try signing up for some group activities. Classes like Zumba, cycling and fit boxing are all fun options and some of the best ways to lose weight after 50.
Prioritizing Your Mental Health
A healthy mind and a healthy body go hand in hand. Regularly feeling stressed and getting poor sleep will make losing weight significantly more challenging.
Try finding activities that help you relax even if it’s only for a short while. Yoga and meditation might seem like clichés but they really do help lower stress levels.
Also, consider taking proactive measures to put your mind at ease. Volunteering in your community is a great way to help others while giving yourself a feeling of self-worth.
If there are toxic people in your life who cause you stress, it might be time to consider separating yourself from them entirely.
Managing Your Diet
While exercising is crucial for anyone trying to lose weight, monitoring your diet is as equally important if not more important. You can exercise all you want but controlling your diet will be necessary and it’s one of the best ways to lose weight after 50.
To get started, take simple measures like cutting out soda and fast food. As tasty or convenient as they may seem, these fatty/sugary food items offer little nutrition and will leave you feeling lethargic throughout the day.
Look for meals and ingredients that not only taste good but also provide you with clean energy. Red meats tend to be high in fat while other meats like chicken and fish are much leaner and still packed with protein. Additionally, fruits and fruit juices are sugary but contain the natural sugars your body needs as opposed to unnatural sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup.
For quick snacks that can tide you over until your next meal, reach for vegetables or nuts instead of chips or sweets. Things like carrots and cucumbers or almonds and peanuts are easy to grab on the go and they’re packed with nutrients.
And know that everyone’s body is different. Some diets might work for others but that doesn’t mean they’ll work for you. Consider scheduling a meeting with a medical professional to figure what exactly your body needs in terms of nutrition and vitamins.
Finally, remember that the best ways to lose weight after 50 don’t have to be ways that you hate. Take your time, experiment and find a diet and exercise routine that you enjoy and can stick to.
