3 Reasons You Can't Lose Weight at 50

If you still eat like you're 17 years old — half a box of pepperoni pizza, cookies, ice cream, and a bag of chips in one sitting — you're most likely packing on the pounds. You might be wondering why eating excessively did not cause significant weight gain in the past, whereas now, your hips, stomach, face, and every other part of your body is ballooning. And when you finally reach for a bowl of salad instead of french fries, why won't the excess weight budge? Why is it so difficult to lose weight after 50?

Your Metabolism is Slower in Your 50s

The truth is, your ability to convert food into energy (metabolism) begins to slow down at a much younger age. What's the magic number? 30. That's right. At 30 years old, your body is burning fewer calories. If your lifestyle is sedentary with a large appetite to match, obesity — a leading cause of cancer and cardiovascular diseases — could plague you. By the time you reach your 50s, your body is burning about 200 fewer calories a day. The best course of action is to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Walking, running, and swimming are great ones to try. Plus, physical activities boost your metabolism.

You Still Eat Sugar Like a Kid on Halloween

Sweet, delicious, and addicting sugar is a carbohydrate that provides your body with energy. Unfortunately, consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain, according to Cancer Council Victoria. Eliminating or reducing your sugar intake is one way to trim inches off your thickening waist. But did you know that 80 percent of our foods and beverages contain sugar? While the word sugar may not be indicated in your favorite cereal's label, 56 other secret terms for sugar may be present, including maltodextrin, dextrose, sucrose, glucose, galactose, and the list goes on. Furthermore, a study revealed that sugar is eight times more addictive than cocaine.

Be sure to avoid hidden sugars the next time you go shopping for groceries. If you need a dash of sweetness in your morning coffee or tea, try adding Stevia instead. Stevia is a natural plant with zero chemicals and calories.

Your Body Can No Longer Keep Up with Your Calorie Intake

Decreased metabolism, excessive sugar consumption, and a high-calorie diet is the perfect recipe for weight gain. When it comes to calories, moderation is key. For example, a broken heart warrants a scoop of Ben & Jerry's, not an entire tub.Also, avoid eating large portions of food throughout the day, which may contribute to the obesity epidemic.

If you don't know how many calories you should consume per day, use a calorie calculator.

Did You Know that the Duchess of York Lost 50 Pounds in Five Months?

Fergie, the Duchess of York, lost an astounding 50 pounds in five months at the age of 54. She achieved her weight loss goals by cutting sugar out of her diet and following a straightforward exercise routine. So, if she can do it after hitting 50, we can too!