Let’s face it, as we get older, it’s more difficult to lose weight. There are many factors that play into that which most people don’t understand. I have a lot of men, who let’s face it, their bodies don’t really function the same as women, argue with me over this. Stress does put extra weight on the midsection of our bodies. I’ve had a doctor tell me this, yet men think we don’t eat right and maybe we should exercise more. Sorry sweetie, but you’re wrong. Stress affects women differently than men. Stress releases a hormone which is the main cause of that mid-section body fat.

So you can take diet pills, but you may suffer diet pill side effects. Here’s a list of the possible side effects you may incur: insomnia, headache, adominal pain, palpitations, arrhythmias, norexia, constipation, nausea, thirst, joint disorder, dizziness, anxiety, depression, rash, acne. Just to name a few.

I always remember my mom telling me “I was thin until I hit 30.” As we get older, we really have to watch what we eat.

Cut out the fried foods, although you are allowed a few because what is life without fried food. I’m a southerner and I love my fried, battered ocra.

Most people don’t want to hear it, but use fresh spinach as the base for your salads. Please stay away from Iceburg lettuce that has absolutely no nutritional value at all. Go spinach or ramain or endive.

Throw an avocado in there as good fat.

Eat lots of tomatoes which are filled with much needed antioxidents.

Of course, lots of fruits. Because of my Crohn’s Disease, I don’t digest fruits very well, but I’ve found at my local deli, or even at a 7-11 small portions of pre-cut fruits that work for me, and help me get in my daily portion of fruit. Yesterday, I had cantelope and strawberries. Yum!

And guess what? You can have your omelet and eat it too. Eggs take a hit for cholesterol, but you can indulge in a one egg omelet a day and still be good to go. Eggs are a great source of protein and as long as you don’t over-do, they are safe to eat. What’s also great about a one egg omelet is you can fill them with spinach, tomatoes, top it with some cheese, and you have your protein, potassium, anti-oxidents and a little bit of dairy all in one tasty meal. Have a side of fruit, maybe a cup of yogurt, and you’re good to go on the nutritional train.

It goes without saying, ladies, that exercise is what brings it all home. It doesn’t have to be strenuous. A 15 minute walk every day will do wonders. However, another 15 minutes with a stretch band or some light hand weights will help you tone up and focus on those problem areas, most notably, those annoying flabby arm flaps. I swear, some days I think I can fly with those wings.

Most importantly, find ways to de-stress: a trip to a spa, a nice long bubble bath, a walk through your favorite calming nature spot. I find the beach to be calming to me, but before I moved here, just a walk through a small forest which I was surrounded by in my neighborhood always centered me and calmed me down.

De-stress, a good diet, light exercise, and getting in tune with nature will help you shed those middle-aged pounds.

Oh, yeah, and a healthy sex life is always helpful. LOL.

Good golly Miss Molly, I am a hippy. I always suspected it, now I know after reading this post, I am hippy-dippy.