Have you noticed as we get older some of us seem to be getting heavier? I was discussing this with a group of seniors and, after doing some research, I discussed my thoughts with a doctor and he agreed that it is a natural progression for our metabolism to slow up as we get older. There are other reasons why I feel this may happen. Being a retiree is supposed to be a time when you can supposedly spoil yourselves, able to relax and enjoy not having to go to work anymore. It also means your energy levels may be quite low, which can be a sure fired way to gain weight. Not that I am saying retirees just sit around and doing nothing but I guarantee that for the majority exercise may not be a part of their daily routine. We all know how important being active is to maintain not only weight but also for quality of life.

By not having to cook for a family anymore, some seniors may lose interest in cooking, preparing a baked dinner for one seems too much work and who wants to heat the oven for just a couple of potatoes? Hence, it is easier to grab pre-packaged meals, or a sandwich for dinner.

Too many morning or afternoon teas may also explain the growth of our girth. Ask yourself these questions and be honest; how active are you now compared to a decade or two ago? Are you still eating the same quantities of food as you did then? And do you spoil yourself with food that you never used to eat? If so, this could explain why your weight has risen, maybe why your clothes don't fit as well and if you don't like what you're seeing in the mirror as much anymore. Maybe its time to do something about it as I believe you can be fit and fabulous at any age! Keeping your nutrition balanced is so important too, and some elderly ladies fall into the trap of having a salad sandwich for lunch, which could explain why they feel lethargic and headachy late afternoon. Your body needs some form of protein to function in peak state, by adding lean ham, chicken or low fat cheese or salmon or tuna to that sandwich you will feel much better.

Carrying extra weight later in life can also wreak havoc with hips, knees and feet. Heart disease is a major concern as we age plus diabetes, high cholesterol and arthritis. All can be linked to poor eating habits. It is never to late to make changes, so start by including low fat healthy choices and becoming more active. Take responsibility for your health now and in your latter years - and they may turn out to be the best years of your life.