How to Lose Weight after 40

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By Miri
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Lose Weight after 40

Have you noticed the numbers on the scale creep up since you turned 40? Changes in metabolism as well as lifestyle are the usual culprits for weight gain after 40. Do you want to lose weight, have more energy, or just feel better? You can make simple changes in your life that will increase metabolism and help you lose those extra pounds.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Notebook to keep track of diet/activities.
Comfortable clothing for exercise

Step 1

Start by writing down everything that goes into your mouth each day for a week. Note the time and any thoughts you think are important, ie: Was I hungry? Was I stressed? Happy? Also write down the general activities you do during that week. Did you walk the dog? Play at the park with the kids? Go to the gym? Anything that made you move.
Step 2

At the end of the week sit down and look at your habits. Do you eat when you aren't hungry? Are your portions out of control? Do you eat when you are tired or emotional? Are you sedentary or active?
Step 3

Make a list of GOALS. Keep this list short so that you don't overwhelm yourself. Reduce portion sizes by a third for example if that is a problem area. If you eat too many foods high in fat and/or sugar consider making it a goal to find alternatives that are pleasing. If you sit for the greater portion of your day then find a way to incorporate more movement into your daily routine.
Step 4

Consider seeing your Doctor for a checkup. Weight gain can sometimes be due to health conditions that can be managed with medications or lifestyle changes.
Step 5

Consider the stress in your life. Happy people tend to be healthy people. If you aren't happy or have too much stress in your life determine the changes you could make to have a better life. Sometimes its as small as your mate helping you with the house/kids or changing jobs. In the big picture of things lowering your expectations slightly and not beating yourself up about the little things goes a long way towards happiness and health.