How do we gain weight as we get older?
In 30-40 years of age weight gaining is rapid. In this age you lose the muscle mass approximately half pound to one pound every year.
As age increases it decreases our physical ability along with metabolic rate. This change imparts weight gain as we get older. Lifestyle changes and irregular exercise leads to weight gain. Basal metabolic rate decreases by increase in age. The muscle mass decreases and body fat increases. Regular exercises help in restoring the muscle mass. Men and women gain weight as they become older due to high caloric diet, less physical activity and loss of muscle mass.
The weight gain seen in men and women between 35 to 55 years of age is usually around the waistlines
In women as age increases they tend to gain weight after menopause, since there estrogen levels are declined. Thyroid imbalance also leads to weight gain
In men there is decrease in testosterone levels and fewer calories are required as they become older..
Weight gain can be prevented by
- Exercising and building muscles. It replenishes the muscles and increases the rate of metabolism.
- Research studies show that vitamins can slow the weight gain process in middle aged individuals. Multivitamins, Vitamin B-6, Vitamin B12 and chromium have shown less weight gain in individuals who consumed them as supplements.
- Vitamin B-6 and Vitamin B12 restored the deficiency in the individuals and helped in low caloric intake.
- Blood sugar in diabetes was controlled by chromium which in turn affected the diet of the individual by lowering the calories.
- Skipping breakfast or meal can slow the metabolism and you tend to eat high caloric food later in the day. Hence having meals at regular intervals helps to minimize weight gain.