Did you ever think you would still be trying to lose weight at 40, and definitely not at 50.
“Shouldn’t I have all this figured out by now?” you think.
And if weight loss in your 30 and 40’s was hard enough, throw in some erratic hormones and weight loss seems out of reach!
What’s a sister to do???
Yes, the peace, freedom, and joy of the Lord are yours some of the time— except when it comes to your weight. It takes up waayyyyy too much of your mental energy. It consumes your thoughts. And it factors in more decisions than it should.
Your Body at 40 and Beyond
It was at around 45 or so after my annual physical that I started to see the plot graph that my doctor pulled out every year start to go up by 1 to 2 pounds. As I did the math in my head, I realized that 10-20 pounds per decade would add up quickly and that would be IF I maintained the high level of activity I was currently doing. My body was starting to betray me and I did not like it.
Whether you’re in your 40’s, 50’s, 60’s or 70’s, there’s no denying that your body will undergo changes as you age. What might have worked a decade ago won’t cut it as you age.
As we age:
1. Hormone fluctuations cause your body to store more fat. (1)
2. You’re not as active as you may have been in the past, resulting in a loss of muscle mass. (2)
3. Your metabolism slows down. (3)
4. You enjoy the finer things in life that maybe you could not afford or did not have time to do when you were younger (that’s my theory). These finer things often come in the form of food and alcohol.
With all this against us, we have to work smarter to maintain a healthy weight.
As Christian women, it’s important that we maintain our health since we are often the ones that our entire families look up to and rely on.
We have an incredible opportunity to leave a legacy of excellent health to our children and grandchildren.
Illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease may be part of your family history but it does not have to be your destiny. You can create a new family legacy when you see your health from a new perspective. Share on XLearn How to Lose Weight After 40
In our Weight Loss, God’s Way Program, we recognize that weight loss is not a simple eat less, move more formula. You can’t just go on a diet and lose weight as you might have done in your 20’s or 30’s.
Successful weight loss for the Christian woman requires
doing the right things, at the right time, with the right motive.
It involves a unique approach for your body, mind, and spirit.
“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” 3 John 2 KJV
1. Body. Your body has unique needs that must be addressed for successful weight loss
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- It needs foods in the right proportions (we recommend a combination 30/30/35 carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—not necessarily in that order
- Regular daily activity with a combination of strength training and low impact aerobic activity
- Lots and lots of water
- Eliminate processed foods. When we were younger, we may have been able to get away with a steady diet of fast foods. With time, nutritional deficiencies will start to catch up with you so you will need to be more vigilant to eat healthier foods.
- Adequate amounts of sleep (we recommend at least 7.5)
- Weight loss is as much when you eat as what you eat—the timing of your meals is also important. That’s why we recommend intermittent fasting.
2. Soul. Your mind, emotions, and will determine your weight loss success or demise.
Notice your thoughts … Do they line up with the Word of God or are you constantly worried, anxious, or overwhelmed? If you’re still struggling with the same issues you struggled with in your younger years, you will need to learn how to renew your mind. Ask yourself, “What thoughts are keeping me captive? What am I really craving? Lord, what do you need me to learn on this health journey?”
Are you still holding on to thoughts of what your body was like when you were younger? Are you focused on all the benefits of being older or are you still holding on to your ‘former days of glory?’ God has different assignments for you at different seasons of your life. Fix your mind on what’s available for you in this season of your life.
3. Spirit. Successful weight loss means aligning our spirits with our heavenly Father’s will.
Weight Loss is as much a spiritual, as it is a physical and mental journey. In fact, without the power of the Holy Spirit, your attempts at successful weight loss will be short-lived.
If you’ve never thought about inviting God along on your weight loss journey, why not?
Maybe you’ve prayed to Him about your weight loss journey, but have you fully submitted? Not just some things, but EVERYTHING—including your late-night eating and emotional eating.
This season of your life provides an amazing opportunity to spend more time with God now that you’re no longer changing diapers and running car-pools. Carve out some special time with the Lord each day so He can guide you towards better health.
There’s no need to throw in the towel on your weight loss goals after 40. It’s still possible for you when you adopt a body, soul and spirit approach!
I would love to hear from you. If you’ve noticed that your body is changing in your 40’s, 50’s and 60’s comment below.
If you want to learn how to lose weight in a way that’s in line with who you are as a Christian woman age 40 and older, be sure to learn more at cathymorenzie.com. As a 52-year-old Christian personal trainer who has helped women for almost 35 years, I know that the hormonal changes our bodies go through are real. I’ve seen it in my own body and with the women I work with. Let me show you how to figure it all out.
32 Comments
Great article! I wanted to rate it higher but iPad touch didn’t access the rest of stars. % stars for sure!
I am 55 and had my three boys late in life: 38, 40, and 43. I married later in life too – at 34. My sons are healthy and fine and my marriage is fine….but I deal with the same demons about weight. It can be somewhat paralyzing and limiting. This program has helped me to think about weight loss differently….but I still struggle. I guess weight is my thorn!
I am almost 55 and I totally agree with you since 47 I have gained over a pound a year I am now at almost 20 lbs over my weight . I was a trainer fir treats , nothing is working . I have gone to the dr and they laugh it off and say you look good “ for your age”. However if this weight gain continues I could end up with a stroke. Ok maybe I won’t get my 24 inch waste back…, but I need to drop this for my health and sanity . I think as you stated sleep and thoughts or anxiety. I am great about giving other issues to god in prayer but feel silly about surrendering my weight and thoughts . I am starting today. Thank you for your 21 day devotional on you version and this healthy perspective .
I love this article. I have had a chronic illness for at least 10 years and have put on over 30 kilograms. Now in my mid 50’s I was getting very worried about my health in my old age. When you give it to God and follow His order your health results do happen. It has taken 2 1/2 years of working through stuff, starting with baby steps. Now I am losing weight, climbing stairs, and enjoying life more than I have in ten years.
Wow! Congratulations Bev and thanks for sharing your testimony. You’re so wright, when we give it to do God, results happen! Keep up the great work!
I have noticed that the same plan and efforts used just two years ago to lose weight don’t work as well this year. I am not sleeping well because I am overworked. I couldn’t even rest properly during a week of vacation. What is the deal with that? I lost a bit a few months ago but now am having trouble focusing and staying motivated to continue.
Interesting how our bodies keep on changing– that’s why it’s so important to know your body and it’s unique needs.
A woman over 40 here that is still changing diapers and getting ready for kindergarten. Had my babies at 38 and 41. Determined to get healthier this year. Love reading your inspiration. Thank you.
What a wonderful blessing Alyssa. Enjoy your little ones you keep carving out time to take care of yourself too!
Perfect encouragement for me at 70….so glad the Lord did tell me Intermittent fasting… Before I even knew what it was… Now we’re working on the exercise and moving… Thank you cathy for all the encouragement
Being 65 weight loss is slow. I broke my ankle 3 years ago and was non weight bearing for 3 months. It has been a very long recovery. I have had to make a lot of changes in my activity level. Persistence is the key with copious amounts of patience.
Faith will be holding your arms up as you go through this journey…keep the faith He will work it for your good
Great article! I’m so grateful to have found Weight Loss God’s Way! I’m in the latter years of my 40’s and was noticing the gradual weight increase that comes with age while also battling low energy and discouragement. Since beginning this program I’ve transitioned God into my health journey in a much deeper and more personal way. The benefits of having Him 1st in this area of my life are incredible! With my eyes on Him first, the other things that were getting in the way of my healthy living are powerless! I’ve enjoyed a shape change and a clearer mental state as well as an all around sense of more balance and empowerment! Thank you for sharing God’s truth and how He feels about our health!
For the past 10 years I have been blaming my weight gain on age and hormones instead of laziness and unhealthy eating. Since joining WLGW I have come to realize that I was the real culprit. I have released 30 pounds, gained energy, satisfation with the foods I eat, and a self-awareness of who God wants me to be. I no longer need my blood pressure medicine, thanks be to God! Weight loss during our “golden years” can be freeing and renewing. I does NOT have to be a struggle. Yes, you have to approach your health diffrently than you did in younger years, but don’t you approach most things differently at this season as well?
Wow, what a wonderful testimony Theresa. Congratulations on your success to date!
Amazing article Cathy! Will need to print so I can reread it frequently. Thank you!
You’re most welcome Geri.
As a Weight Loss God’s Way member, I have gotten so much help in learning how to cope with this 66 year old body, and how to care for it well. It doesn’t have to be negative to get older, and I’m enjoying the best health, lowest weight, and most energy that I’ve had in years! This includes a recent trip with family to some of our National Parks, and keeping up with the younger hikers (my goals are being realized!). Thank you, Cathy, for this realistic blog about our bodies as we get older, and that there are ways to care well for ourselves.
YOu’re most welcome Ena. Here’s to many more years of hiking and keeping up with the younger ones!!!
What an inspiring post! I am 47 and seeing my body slow its metabolism as I age and I need to be more vigilant about renewing my mind in regards to my attitudes and actions around food.
Yes Darla, it does not have to be a downhill spiral. In fact, despite the changes our bodies go through, we can get better with age. Like a fine wine :)!
I guess I need to look into intermittent fasting and what is the correct order for the 30/30/35 fats carbs and protein?
I love intermittent fasting Mary Ann. It really helps me. The correct order depends on your individual body, so there is no one-size-fits-all formula. Some people do better with less carbohydrates. The key is to understand how your body responds when you eat something. Hope that helps.
I appreciate the encouragement in this message. I’ve noticed so many changes in my body after having 3 close pregnancies and entering into my forties. It seems I have almost no metabolism and the hormonal changes after an hysterectomy has made my weight loss goals seem like nothing near possible. I’ve been struggling with my weight for the past 12 years. It’s been like a yo-yo. I’ve tried all kinds of diet plans and workout and weight loss apps. I’ve cried immeasureable tears and prayed hundreds of prayers. I’ve started the journey countless times and given up countless times. I’ve fought low self esteem, anxiety and depression about my weight. Now I’m at a point of whatever happens just happens while I try to make good food choices I still just can’t seem to get back to the gym. I’m currently seeking a workout partner to help me get back on track. I look forward to reading these inspirations on weight loss God’s way to keep me focused. Thank so much for sharing these God-centered inspirations!
I can hear your frustration Dee. Have you ever tried intermittent fasting? I find it is really helping to level out my hormones. I would also recommend this book called the Hormone Cure by Sara Gottfried M.D. Praying for your success. A big part of the journey is also understanding your body and what it needs. Sometimes that changes from day to day. It sounds weird but have you asked your body what it needs? If you listen, it will tell you.
I am 70 years old soon to be 71. I have been trying to lose weight for decades. Yo-yo. I have been praying a lot. I weigh 181 pounds. I just want to feel better. The weight is around my stomach area. Any suggestions are appreciated. Your articles are very helpful.
I can hear your frustration Jan. Is there anything you’ve tried in the past that was successful? There is no simple solution. It takes time to learn your body and understand what it needs. Do you know what foods make you feel good and what foods drain you or make you put on weight? Do you know how much food you’re currently eating? Start to notice how you feel and start from there. I suggest keeping track of what you eat for 3-5 days to get a sense of what you’re eating. You can track your food on myfitnesspal.com. Keep me posted.
Great inspiration and it is well noted that as we age our bodies are very different then they were years ago. I know that only God can deliver me from the salty potato chips and occasional chocolate and what I know is this when I totally turn it over to Him I go back to where I should be in body weight. I continue to exercise daily and other than my nemesis I eat healthy foods daily and those that are unhealthy for me. I know that I’m healthy than ever before since I have been exercising daily since May 20th and eating healthy for me these past 8 years. God will see me through as I become obedient to Him daily and not occasionally. Thank you for sharing Cathy and I’m one of the ones who are in their 70’s + to God be the glory for all things!!
Congratulations on your success to date Jamila.Keep up the great work. I suggest you do a bit of research on what your specific food cravings might. It could be just habit but it could also be your body telling you that it needs some specific nutrients. Check this out and then do your own research: https://www.cathymorenzie.com/do-you-know-what-your-food-cravings-mean/
This post was really good to hear. I just turned 53 and have noticed that over the last few years that I’m not as physically capable of doing things I used to do. Such as doing all my yard work in one day. God showing me that that is ok. Him leading me in the adjustments I need to make. Same as with my health and learning to eat healthy and taking care of my body. It definitely has to be done in Him. It’s a journey and He is showing me that I will get healthier and healthier for this is the way I am to live the rest of my life. I’m actually the healthiest I have been in years. Only to grow healthier in God, mind, body and spirit. Thank you Cathy
Yes, it absolutely okay Andrea. We will need to make some adjustments but that does not automatically mean that it’s all downhill form here. That is great news to hear that you’re getting healthier as you age. What a legacy to pass on to future generations!
This is a great blog post. I just turned 50 this past year and it seems EVERYTHING about my body is changing! Thanks for sharing your wisdom Cathy!
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