Losing Weight after 40: A Challenge You Can Overcome

Once you reach your forties, your body starts to go through certain changes and burn fewer calories. Discover the secrets of losing weight after 40 in this article.
Losing Weight after 40: A Challenge You Can Overcome

Last update: 27 March, 2018

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about losing weight after 40, which requires patience and determination.

Our bodies change over the years. One of the changes that many people experience is that it becomes much more difficult to lose weight. This doesn’t mean that weight loss is impossible, however.

Is losing weight after 40 possible?

Of course it is. But the weight might not drop off like it did when you were in your twenties.

In early adulthood, we have more time and energy to devote to physically strenuous activities, and our metabolism tends to be faster.

But this doesn’t mean it’s time to give up. There are tips and tricks that help with losing weight after 40.

What’s more, achieving a healthy weight in your forties has particular benefits. Let’s take a look at why this is.

4 reasons for losing weight after 40

  • The main reason is sarcopenia. Have you heard of it? This is the gradual loss of muscle mass that occurs with ageing. Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle helps to minimize it, along with other benefits to your physical and mental health.
Losing Weight after 40: A Challenge You Can Overcome
  • Obesity limits testosterone production. This hormone protects against weight gain by stopping fat deposits. As we gain weight, fat wins the battle and we stop producing enough of this hormone.
  • It’s a great reason to stay active. When we hit our forties, many of us stop caring so much about our physical appearance. But staying active isn’t just about beauty – it’s about health. So don’t skip your daily walk. Also try other activities, such as dance classes or swimming.
  • People who are at a healthy weight after 40 have a lower risk of developing colon cancer, digestive disorders, stomach pain and other related issues.

Benefits of losing weight after 40

Losing weight after 40 has multiple benefits. Here are just a few:

  1. Your metabolic rate will gradually increase. This means you’ll be able to burn more fat.
  2. You’ll keep your digestive system healthy.
  3. There is less pressure on your airways, which means you breathe easier and don’t get out of breath.
  4. It improves sleep.
  5. Your self-esteem and confidence will improve.
  6. You’ll change and improve your lifestyle, making healthier choices.
  7. You’ll be happier with your figure.
  8. Your risk of many illnesses will decrease.
  9. Your eating habits will improve.
Losing Weight after 40: A Challenge You Can Overcome

How to lose weight after 40

Although losing weight after 40 is a challenge, it isn’t impossible. If you follow all these tips, you’re sure to see results.

  • You can do it! You must convince yourself that this is possible. Don’t look for overnight results. Remember that losing weight is a gradual process, and anxiety can hold you back.
  • Get regular exercise. If it’s difficult to fit a session at the gym into your schedule, look for other alternatives. There are many options to exercise outdoors, so look for one that fits your needs and abilities.
  • Don’t skip meals. You should have breakfast, lunch and dinner regularly and always at the same time. Healthy snacks can also help control hunger and reduce cravings. This way, you’ll avoid eating too much at a time.
  • Consult a dietician. Who better to tell you how many calories you should be getting in order to lose weight? If you want, these professionals can also help prepare a personalized diet plan that works for your metabolism.
  • Finally, make sure you get enough sleep. Believe it or not, sleeping helps you renew your energy for another action-packed day. But don’t use this as an excuse to lie around, either: both lack of sleep and excess sleep can contribute to weight gain.

People who are at a healthy weight after 40 have a lower risk of developing colon cancer, digestive disorders, stomach pain and other related issues.

Above all, keep in mind that losing weight after 40 is a way of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

A healthy weight helps protect against illnesses relating to cholesterol and blood circulation, and may also help ward off psychological disorders such as depression.

There are many different activities that will help you shed the pounds. Find the one you like best, and turn this challenge into a hobby!

 


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


  • Naseeb MA., Volpe SL., Protein and exercise in the prevention of sarcopenia and aging. Nutr Res, 2017. 40: 1-20.
  • O’Keefe SJD., Diet, microorganisms and theit metabolites, and colon cancer. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol, 2016. 13 (12): 691-706.

This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.