The middle-age spread seems to sneak up on us as we age. One day we look in the mirror and realize that there is more to us than before. Weight gain shows up the most in our belly. Extra belly fat is not only a sign of more weight, it is also a health risk as it increases some major ones if not taken care of. A few of the major health risks that are increased include heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It's important to take care of our mid-sections sooner than later. The good news is that reducing belly fat is possible and can be simple regardless of age.
Older men and women have the ability to lose weight just as effectively as someone in their early twenties. The most important thing to consider is the types of food you are eating. Changing our eating habits will effect our weight loss more so than exercise alone. There is a misconception that we can eat whatever we choose as long as we get plenty of exercise. The truth of the matter is, no matter how much exercise we do, if we continue eating the wrong foods, we only slow our progress. One of the most effective way to shed pounds is by cutting simple carbohydrate intake and processed foods. Here is a list of simple carb foods to cut back on or avoid all together:
- bread
- rice
- cereal
- refined sugar
- baked goods
- beverages (soda, fancy coffees, sugar-filled smoothies, etc.)
- alcoholic drinks
- any processed foods
Exercise is still very important. If you haven't exercised in a long time, start off very slow. Walking is a great start. Once you are capable, resistance training with weights as well as circuit training can help burn fat faster.
