By Donna Herberger and Stephen D. Rycyna, Jr., MD

Is it true that as a person ages, it becomes harder to shed unwanted pounds? Yes and no.

When people age, their lifestyles also often change — sometimes dramatically. Those who have gained weight over the years may find it more challenging to be active simply because of the excess weight they’re carrying. Often, we hear women blame it on their hormones. While hormone fluctuations can add to the challenge, they should not prevent weight loss.

At The Ideal You, we work with people of all ages and varying lifestyles, with weight loss goals ranging from 20 to 100 pounds or more. Age does not appear to be the limiting factor. The primary factors we observe are a person’s diet, how their food is prepared, their eating habits, muscle mass, and physical activity levels.

Consider this: Gaining just three pounds a year over 10 years results in a 30-pound weight gain, which is primarily fat, rather than muscle.

According to our protocol, women typically lose two or more pounds per week, and men usually lose three or more pounds per week, without the use of drugs, extra activity, or exercise. While you can engage in light cardio and weights while losing weight, it’s not mandatory.

Some benefits of weight loss may include lower blood pressure, blood sugar, and triglyceride levels, reduced joint pain, improved sleep, increased energy, and more. Invest in a drug-free plan to help ensure your weight loss goals.

You can, potentially, add many healthy years to your life!

Donna Herberger is President of The Ideal You Weight Loss Center LLC, and Stephen D. Rycyna, Jr., MD, is the Medical Director. Learn more at IdealYou.com or call 716 631-THIN (8446).