Never too old

breadangel

Hi everyone,
Here I am, age 72 and weigh 215. I have been at this same weight for about six years. Before that, my maximum weight was over 235. Through a combination of factors, I was able to lose, but have been stuck at 215. I don't need to weigh myself, my clothes are a good barometer and I can usually be accurate with using that method.

I know and my doctor has confirmed that I am not too old to lose weight and, in fact it is highly recommended. The problem is--how to do it effectively. The other problem is, I have spent a fortune over my lifetime buying diet books, in diet and fitness programs, and you know the rest.

So, now I am giving it one last shot; I don't have the time or money to devote to this any longer. I am going a different route than most of you. Because I live in Southern California, I have access to one of the clinics run by Dr. Daniel Amen. He is frequently on PBS and is a noted researcher in neurophysiology. He has started a weight loss program and I joined. I am able to go to the classes, but there is also an on-line option.

My first class was last night and was quite interesting. They stress brain health and physiology and are constantly researching the relationship between the brain and obesity. I love the scientific approach and truly believe that with optimum brain health, the body will find the right weight.

This is not an inexpensive program ($500 + optional, but recommended supplements), nor is it too hard or too easy. The instructor is excellent and well educated. The program is multi-faceted and there is a lot of support from the staff.

Last night, several people were in attendance who had completed the 10 week program, once or twice before. They all have lost a lot of weight, are very energized and positive about the entire process.They are repeating the program again, so as to keep on track with their goals.

So today, I went to Trader Joe's (recommended by the program) and did a lot of grocery shopping. There are essentially two eating plans that they recommend. One is very strict, the other one gives more variety, but still restricted. I went for the less strict option, because it is more practical for me, my work, travel plans and life in general. Whichever you select, there is a lot of fruits and veggies required and brain enhancing protein. I love bread (also make my own), and the plan I selected allows for bread in small quantities.

If anyone is interested, i will post frequently on how this program is going and how I am doing.

Caralyn

Hello breadangel,

Thank you for your very interesting post. I've often thought I was too old to be losing weight (I am 65) but I soon told myself that is a ridiculous notion. I had two total knee replacements (at separate times, of course) a few years ago and I'm afraid now I'm needing a hip replacement. I've been putting it off for quite some time now and only recently realized that I am at a point where I have no choice, since the pain is now making it necessary. Needless-to-say, exercise is at a minimum and although I am not looking forward to the surgery itself I know my general over-all well being will be enhanced. I sincerely wish you luck in your new program and yes, I would be interested in hearing about your progression.

Caralyn

misspenny762

You're an an inspiration! I know you can do this, welcome to MFP!

PS hi SoCal neighbor :]

batty5

Thank you for posting & good luck on your journey. I am in the UK, age 59 with a number of health problems which make exercise out of a deep pool impossible but I exercise quite vigorously for 5 or 6 hours per week in a pool. Every few weeks I seem to make some progress & have dropped my calorie intake but my scales say that this week I have GAINED 8lbs on a deficit of approx. 7,000 calories so I need all the help I can get because something is wrong. I will not give up but am increasingly upset not to mention disappointed. I can only hope that it is all water & will suddenly disappear !!!!