As we all know, aging is an inevitable physiological and psychological process that can significantly impact the quality of life in general, whatever the approach adopted (such as denial, for example).
Nevertheless, people will never stop fighting for immortality.
All joking aside, the truth is that we can do a lot to prevent mental and health hardships that come with aging – by exercising, eating proper food, engaging in meaningful activities, and so on.
To keep up with youth and slow down the degree of physical manifestations of growing older, there is a large number of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures currently available.
Or, in case it doesn’t fix the problem (or better, our attitude to the problem), we can apply for esthetic surgery which is, of course, a big decision to make.
However, all these interventions aiming to improve our appearance (though not necessarily psychosocial wellbeing), are not only costly but also temporary solutions.
So, before making an appointment with a board-certified surgeon, it is wise to gather as much information as possible on the topic, to be able to openly discuss the risks and benefits involved.
Speaking of overweight and obesity, which commonly comes with age, liposuction is currently the most popular cosmetic procedure worldwide, as well as a more complex gastric by-pass surgery, but with unknown long-term effects and many known adverse effects.
When it starts
Thankfully, these changes to our body do not happen overnight and we have some time to adapt as we go. Perhaps, the best strategy is looking at these issues philosophically, try to accept it, prepare, and do whatever it takes to make it easier. That way, the changes that occur in our body, forced by nature, no matter how extensive and largely uncomfortable, will certainly become bearable.
As we get older the biochemistry of our body alters (and alternates) which impacts all our senses; speaking of weight gain aging affects our sense of fullness that regulates gastrointestinal hormones. That’s why the brain might send us more often into overeating mode.
The accumulation of adipose tissue can also be triggered by menopause transition and declining of reproductive hormones as compensatory mechanisms.
The question is to what degree and how can we control these issues and what are the best weight management strategies for middle-aged people?
Solutions
Despite widely believed saying that an old dog can’t learn new tricks, it is quite the opposite says Eric Kandel, a neuropsychiatric who claims that the decline of mental and other functions can be stopped or even reversed with our conscious effort and participation.
To put it simply: weight gain in middle age is not inevitable. Or to be more specific – it is reversible!
To keep up with nature we need to make well-informed decisions regarding physical activity, healthy diet, and continuous improvement of our cognitive skills. Dr. Kandel suggests regular exercise, learning new languages, and carefully chosen nutrition.
As we can see, there are lots of “tricks” to learn and adapt to keep up with aging, avoid weight gain and memory loss, and maintain functionality for many years ahead.
However, obsessive attachment to “only” healthy food is a heavy burden that will eventually make us succumb to temptation. Everyone should enjoy something off the list once in a while.
You can have your cake and eat it.
It won’t hurt as long as we have a clear picture of what we want from ourselves and others in the long run.
And what comes first on the (bucket) list is to feel good and comfortable about yourself, no matter how you look. And not to feel guilt because of it.
Because, money and plastic surgery can’t buy us love, and, most importantly, a healthy level of self-respect. On the contrary.
Keep active, stay sober.
