Myth: I am older so my metabolism has slowed down and it is harder to lose weight or maintain a desired weight

Fact: A fall in the metabolic rate through aging does occur when studied in large populations.  Reasons for this are not perfectly clear with some research suggesting that a loss of organ tissue and decreased brain glucose utilization are to blame.  In any case, regardless of the reason for the decline, it is estimated that the loss in metabolic rate is equal about 1-2% per decade, or a decline of 400 kcal/day from age 20 to 70. (Roberts)  This small decline is negligible and is no excuse for a rapidly expanding waistline.

Roberts SB, Rosenberg I. Nutrition and aging: Changes in the regulation of energy metabolism with aging. Physiol Rev. 2006;86(2):651-667.

Comment: Too many people try to blame their poor health or their unappealing body composition on an outside source instead of taking responsibility and making changes to their lifestyle.  Don’t make this mistake.  It may be hard to swallow, but 9 times out of 10 your weight gain is your fault.  You may not have done it purposely and you may not have realized you were responsible, but now you do.  If you’re concerned, start making changes.  If you don’t know where to start…. ask.

***This myth and others like it will be discussed in S.P.E.E.D. – the only wieght loss book worth reading.