Why is it so hard to lose weight after 40?

NO! You are not crazy.

It really is much harder for women to lose weight after 40.

Our bodies undergo major changes and if you have an understanding of what is happening… you can fight it.

Metabolism Slow Down

As we age, our metabolism naturally slows down. This means your body burns fewer calories at rest compared to when you were younger. Several factors contribute to this slowdown, including a decrease in muscle mass and hormonal changes. After 40, your body might require fewer calories than before, and the same food intake that once kept you at a steady weight might now contribute to gradual weight gain.

Hormonal Shifts

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating body weight, and after 40, significant hormonal changes can occur. For women, perimenopause and menopause lead to a decrease in estrogen levels, which can result in weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.

Muscle Mass Decreases

Muscle is metabolically active tissue, meaning it burns more calories than fat even when you're not exercising. As you age, you naturally lose muscle mass—a process called sarcopenia. This loss begins in your 30s but becomes more pronounced after 40. Less muscle mass means a lower metabolic rate, making it harder to lose weight. So… don’t be afraid to lift those weights!

Lifestyle Factors

By the time we reach our 40s, life can get busy with careers, family, and other responsibilities. These demands can lead to less time for exercise and more reliance on convenient, often less healthy, food options. Stress, lack of sleep, and decreased physical activity all contribute to weight gain and make losing weight more difficult. Implementing a routine of self-care can make a big difference.

Changes in Fat Distribution

Have you noticed more weight around your belly and less in your hips? This change in fat distribution is completely normal after 40. This change in fat distribution is partly due to hormonal shifts and a decrease in muscle mass.

Insulin Resistance

When your body becomes resistant to insulin, which can happen with age, it has to produce more of it to keep blood sugar levels stable. High insulin levels can lead to weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area, and make it harder to lose weight. Eating more protein can stabilize insulin levels and keep your fat loss on track.

So to sum it up, losing weight after 40 is entirely possible. You just need a different strategy. Stay involved in that Strategic Wellness LLC Facebook community to get the tools you need to reach your fat loss goals!