THE SURPRISING TRUTH about Losing Weight After 40

Jan 8 / May Zaki
As we grow older, it often becomes more difficult to manage our weight. However, the reasons may be different than you think. A recent study challenges the conventional wisdom about metabolism across the lifespan.

Rather than slowing down in middle age, human metabolism seems to remain stable from 20 to 60. That’s according to a groundbreaking study at Duke University.

That means we could be wasting time and money on expensive supplements and magic foods that claim to help us burn more calories. Try these suggestions, instead, for taking weight off and keeping it off after 40

Increasing Muscle Mass.
While our metabolism may remain strong for decades, our muscle mass starts decreasing sooner.

The average adult loses about 3 to 5% every ten years after they turn 30.
Try these tips:

1. Use resistance. The key to building strength is contracting your muscles against external resistance. Start my experimenting body-weight exercises to see what works for you.

2. Consume adequate protein. Current guidelines recommend getting 10 to 35% of our calories from protein, and many experts prefer the upper range. Some studies suggest that eating a protein-rich meal or snack within 2 hours after working out is especially helpful.

Other Tips for Losing Weight After 40 Aging affects your body weight in other ways too:

Increases in insulin resistance lead to excess sugar being stored as fat. Hormonal changes play a role too, especially for women after menopause. On top of that, our lifestyle may become more sedentary.

Using these strategies can help:

1. Choose whole foods.

Satisfy your hunger with natural foods rich in nutrients and fiber and low in added sugar and salt. Smart choices include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

2. Drink water.

It’s easy to confuse thirst with hunger. Staying hydrated will enhance your digestion and help you feel full.

3. Sleep well. Getting good quality sleep each night is important for our overall well-being. Stick to a regular bedtime that allows you to wake up naturally feeling refreshed.

4. Move around.

How many hours a day do we spend sitting? In addition to regular exercise, take a break to stretch and walk around each half-hour anytime you’re at your desk or watching TV.

5. Seek support.

Changing your habits is easier when you have your family and friends on your side. Invite your loved ones to join you in preparing nutritious meals at home and sticking to a workout program.

6. See your doctor.

If you need more help, talk with your doctor about your personal situation. For example, a thyroid screening can catch issues that cause weight gain, fatigue, and depression in many adults over 35.


Staying in healthy shape after 40 takes a little effort, but the benefits are huge. You lower your risk for many serious health conditions and increase your chances for living an active pain-free life.
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