How to Maintain Good Overall Health

Baby boomer quick tips: for weight management

Our new generation of baby boomers is growing rapidly and many people in this age bracket are already, or will be experiencing problems with weight management, for many different reasons.

First, define the term baby boomer.

It will be used to refer to those people who were born in the first ten to fifteen years after World War 11, a time of peace, when there were many babies being born all around the world and there was a new focus on family values.

Now, the baby boomers are rapidly becoming the new, senior citizens.

In terms of weight management for baby boomers and others, here are some potential problems with possible solutions.

Problem:

As I get older, my metabolism seems to be slowing down and as a result, my weight seems to be skyrocketing. What can I do?

Solution:

It is normal for one's metabolism to slow down as one ages, but that does not mean that your life has to be governed by excess weight. First, have a physical examination by your doctor, to see if there are any health related issues like a thyroid problems or a lack of iron, which may need to be dealt with, medically. Hopefully, you are healthy. If that is the case, the next step is to start looking closely at your diet and exercise regime. Ask yourself if you have ever done that seriously. If not, this is a good time to start. Try keeping a notebook.

Problem: 

When looking at my diet, I may be eating too much.

Solution: 

Recognizing that you are over eating is a major factor in weight control. First, cut down the portion size that you serve yourself and others. You may find out that you are satisfied with half the amount that you are eating or less. You may try to use smaller plates and cups. Make certain that you are serving yourself good quality, nutritious food and not junk food. Serve your food in a way that is pleasing to the eye. Guess what. No one is going to notice if you don't clean your plate. Keep a record of what you eat and when. You might find that you are eating out of boredom, rather than because your body wants food. Find something else that excites you, other than food. If you don't buy junk food, you won't eat much of it. More than likely you will not walk to the store to buy it. Don't put one more mouthful into your mouth when your body tells you that you are full. You don't need it.

Problem: 

I really want to do more in terms of physical exercise, but I find that I am tiring more easily now.

Solution: 

If you have never done much in terms of physical exercise, trying to do a lot now or all of a sudden, may prove to be too much for you. It may be exhausting. If you have been doing some exercise on a regular basis over the years, it is easier to increase the amount that you do now. Here is one word of caution for those who want to increase their exercise levels. Increase your level of physical exercise gradually and do things that are appropriate for your height, weight and build. Find things that you enjoy doing and you will forget about how tired you feel. After a while, you may forget about being tired and find exercise is a challenge and fun.! Try carrying ten pounds of sugar everywhere you go for a day and you will realize how much less tired you feel when you lose that extra weight.

Problem: 

I find that I am discouraged and feeling depressed about my weight and exercise program, as it just does not seem to be working.

Solution: 

Being discouraged and feeling depressed about a new weight management and exercise program is not uncommon. Start by purchasing a scale. Begin to keep an accurate record of your weight. Document your exercise, as well. Be honest with yourself as your scale will tell the truth in the end! Begin to take a more positive attitude towards your life and reward yourself when you succeed. Don't use food as a reward. Instead, buy a new pair of jeans or a purse. Find a better pair of walking shoes or something that will encourage you to keep on exercising. Celebrate. Don't punish yourself if you have not succeeded. Every day is a new day, so start again.

Problem: 

My finances are changing as I get older and I feel that I deserve better after all of the years of hard work that I put in.

Solution: 

Baby boomers will be facing major financial issues, all over the world. There is the reality that in the more recent past, fewer children have been born. Many of them will not be able to support aging family members. 

Many of the pension programs are being eliminated or diminished for a variety of reason. Yes, you do deserve better. Many seniors have been able to put retirement packages together, but there are those who have not been able to do so for a variety of reasons. Now, is a good time to look seriously at your financial situation, but do it in a way that you can rectify potential problems that may occur down the road. Try contacting a financial adviser for possible recommendations. Look at what you have done in the past, but with an eye to the future and see what skills you can build on. Look seriously at what you planned for your future and see if you have met some of your goals. In terms of what you purchase, buy what you need, not just what you desire and that includes your groceries. Cutting back can be a lot easier if you recognize the reality that it will help you in terms of your weight management program.

Problem: 

My interests are changing and they are different that those of other baby boomers.

Solution: 

It would be strange if your interests did not change, over the years. Most people have many different interests and can find someone to relate to in terms of interest level and activity. Look at what you really like to do. What excites you? Can you get interested in a new field? Yes, you can and you should be open to new interests. Just taking a culinary course for the fun of it might be beneficial, in several ways. You will meet new people and learn how to cook healthy and nutritious meals, in a way you never expected. Try using some new herbs and spices and you may find that your food is more satisfying and you do not crave anything. Ever think about having your own organic garden? Not only is it environment friendly, it is going to yield good healthy food for your consumption. You will be amazed at how many others you find in your immediate area, who get excited about your new garden.

Taking all of these tips and adding to them will help you to adjust to your new baby boomer status. Enjoy the world around you and live life fully. Boast about being a baby boomer because that is what you are. Love it. 

Be aware of the fact that you are managing your weight; no longer is your weight managing you. This is only the beginning.