The older you get, the tougher it becomes to work off that extra roti and skipping even one day at the gym can prove a major setback. That’s because as we age, the lean mass in our body reduces, slowing our metabolism (ability to burn calories) down.

Which is why it’s important to start exercising when you’re younger – it is a time when you can boost your metabolism and maintain good muscle mass, which will in turn de-accelerate the aging process and help you continue to stay fit and lose weight.

But for those of you kicking off a regimen at an older age – don’t lose heart. You can lose weight even when you are older; it just takes more effort and requires a fairly drastic change in diet and lifestyle.

Here are three tips for when attempting losing weight when you are older:

Lose the belly weight For both men and women much of the fat gained at this time accumulates around the waist. You need to do a combination of weights and cardiovascular training to get rid of it, about 250 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 125 minutes of high-intensity exercise a week. Also, avoid processed foods.

Don’t stress eat Over-eating is one of the biggest culprits behind stress-induced weight gain in women, and possibly a few men (men have a less emotional attachment to food). Which is why it is important to be armed with a healthy daily eating plan as well as stress-reducing solutions.

Control portion sizes As your metabolism declines with age, you’d be better off eating less. Using a smaller sized bowl or plate than normal is one good way to ensure you don’t overeat.

Regardless of your age and fitness level, our experts can help build a diet & fitness plan that fits right into your lifestyle.