The body begins to change after the age of 60.
Muscle mass declines, making it harder to burn calories, according to research published in Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care.
At the same time, illness or life changes may lead to reduced daily movement.
This can make it even more difficult to maintain a healthy weight, according to Parade.
Also read: Dentists reveal what mouthwash does to your oral health
It is therefore not only age itself, but also changes in activity levels that play a significant role.
Recommended exercise
Experts recommend strength training to preserve muscle mass. This helps the body burn more energy, even when not exercising.
Walking is also highlighted as a good option. It is a low-impact form of exercise that most people can participate in, and it requires no equipment.
According to the American Heart Association, adults should be physically active for at least 150 minutes per week to stay healthy.
Also read: The biggest myths about diet – and what actually holds true
How many steps you should take
Even short walks can make a difference. As little as 10 to 15 minutes a day can improve circulation and bodily functions, according to Parade.
For weight loss, however, the requirement is higher. A target of 6,000 to 8,000 steps per day typically corresponds to 60 to 80 minutes of walking.
In addition, experts point out that around 300 minutes of walking per week may be necessary to lose weight after the age of 60.
However, even an increase of about 1,000 extra steps per day can have an effect.
Also read: How to manage your cholesterol with simple changes
Sources: Parade, American Heart Association, and Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care.
Also read: Research: Baby teeth can reveal stress during pregnancy
