How to lose weight in your 50s? 5 tips that you must follow

New Delhi: Ageing is an inevitable process and can have several implications on health. Apart from the common effects of ageing such as deteriorated skin, bone, and muscle health, ageing can also result in weight management issues. In order to lose weight, the body must meet certain requirements, some of which may include:

• Physical activity
• Underlying health conditions
• Bodily functions 

Metabolism plays an important role in regulating body weight, however, the metabolism rate tends to slow down with age. This can lead to weight gain or weight mismanagement which can be harmful to the bones, heart, and brain. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the total amount of cholesterol is calculated based on LDL, HDL and triglycerides. There are different cholesterol levels suggested by the CDC. While for men aged 20 or above, the total healthy cholesterol levels are said to be between 125-200 mg/dl and anything above it is considered unhealthy or high risk. And if the HDL levels are above 40 mg/dl then also, it's considered dangerous. For women aged 20 or above, the total cholesterol levels should also be between 125-200 mg/dl. And if their HDL is 50 mg/dl, then it is considered as a bell of risk.

Losing weight after 50

Here are some ways in which you can lose weight after 50:

1. Talk to a dietician and trainer: A healthy diet and exercise are extremely important to lose weight regardless of age. However, any abrupt changes in the diet ad physical activity is not a wise step after the 50s. Make sure that you consult a dietician and trainer before making any major changes to the diet and stay under expert supervision for health and safety. 
2. Eat out less: Cooking every day might not be a cup of tea for everyone. And after a long day at work, dining out may seem like the easiest option available. But is it a wise one? As tempting as it might sound, dining out must be avoided when working on a weight loss diet. This is because cooking at home can help regulate the ingredients used which can greatly influence the healthiness of the same. Not to mention that it's a way more hygienic and economical affair. 
3. Be on the move: An ageing body might not provide an individual with sufficient energy and strength to stay physically active. However, when trying to lose weight, physical inactivity is a luxury that one cannot afford. Apart from causing further deterioration of the bones, joints, muscles, and other parts of the body, a sedentary and unhealthy lifestyle will have a long term adverse impact on the overall health. 
4. Body composition matters: The human body is made up of fat and muscles which contribute to an individual's weight. When trying to lose weight, emphasis must be laid on getting rid of excess fat and building muscles. Furthermore, one must aim at attaining a healthy weight, rather than a particular number. 
5. Get enough rest: Are you getting enough sleep? If not then you could be putting your weight at risk. Sleep is essential to ensure that the body gets sufficient rest to function at its optimum level, be it mentally or physically. When working on a weight loss plan, individuals must ensure getting 6-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep daily.