Carrying extra weight can be a struggle for many people as they age. While it’s not uncommon to put on a few pounds as you get older, carrying excess weight can have a significant impact on your health, particularly as you approach 70.

In this article, we’ll explore how carrying extra weight at 45 can affect your health later in life, and what you can do to maintain a healthy weight as you age.

How Does Carrying Extra Weight Affect Your Health?

Carrying extra weight can increase your risk of a range of health conditions, including:.

1. Heart Disease

Carrying extra weight can put a strain on your heart and increase your risk of heart disease. In fact, studies have shown that people who are obese are at a higher risk of developing heart disease than those who are of a healthy weight.

2. Diabetes

Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is because carrying excess weight can lead to insulin resistance, a condition where your body can’t use insulin effectively.

3. High Blood Pressure

Carrying extra weight can also increase your blood pressure. High blood pressure, or hypertension, can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.

4. Sleep Apnea

Carrying extra weight can also increase your risk of sleep apnea, a condition where you stop breathing momentarily while you sleep. Sleep apnea can lead to daytime fatigue, as well as more serious health concerns, such as high blood pressure.

How Can You Maintain a Healthy Weight?

Maintaining a healthy weight as you age is important for your overall health and wellbeing. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy weight:.

1. Stay Active

Staying active is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, per week.

You should also include strength training exercises, such as lifting weights, at least two times per week.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is also important for maintaining a healthy weight. Aim to eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy.

You should also limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is also important for maintaining a healthy weight. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Sleep deprivation can lead to overeating and weight gain, so make sure you’re getting enough rest.

4. Manage Stress

Stress can also contribute to weight gain, so it’s important to manage your stress levels. Some ways to manage stress include practicing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, or finding other ways to relax and unwind.

The Bottom Line

Carrying extra weight at 45 can have a significant impact on your health later in life.

By staying active, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing your stress levels, you can maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of developing a range of health conditions as you age.