Things aren't the way they used to be. Before, I had a monstrous appetite and was as thin as a rail. I recall that I was called a "walking stick" in high school and received comments that I was all skin and bones. Well, that was fine with me--considering I love to eat the kind of food that makes one fat: pastries, sweets, chocolates, desserts, pizza... well, you get the picture.
Now, those days are OVER! I started noticing the change just a few months ago. One day all my pants fit me just fine--then just after a week of late night full dinners and midnight snacks--I had problems getting the buttons closed! Thank God for stretchable pants!
I have weekly workouts and the only thing I could think of that I should do to fit into my old wardrobe is to change my eating habits. The word "diet" appeared in my dictionary. Ugh... ghastly! Let's face it... keeping in shape is not as easy as it was before.
They say I've come to the point in my life where I have to work to keep in shape--and for someone like me that appreciates creamy chocolate shakes--that is a bother. They say that I'll get used to eating "lighter" and its just a state of mind.
To those who have maintained a good physique even with age... cheers!
2 comments:
I must say it's a phase in everyone's life when the body's rate of metabolism changes, and the extra weight we carry is caused by that one factor but there are also many others.
As you have pointed out, the type of food we eat very much contributes to the "tightening" of our clothes. But with the hype on eating supposedly healthy food and what-not, it is highly recommended that we consult a nutritionist especially when some types of diet may cause more harm than good. Based on one's medical history, hereditary tendencies and general health condition, the nutritionist can then prescribe the right diet prescription that is both effective and safe for you.
Life before having a job usually involves a lot of mobility and physical activity, thus eliminating the need to exercise. However,
a sedentary lifestyle brought about by restricted mobility in the office environment and failing to engage in physical exercise routines greatly affect the body's metabolism thus the weight gain over time.
Another difference is, when we have jobs, we now have more purchasing power, and we can buy and *eat* whatever we want (provided it's within our means) in which we almost always, unwittingly, exceed our daily calorie intake.
Whereas, when we're still studying, we cannot afford the food we want to eat, or we have to save a few bucks to finally eat that expensive but very yummy goody we've been salivating over. Never mind the calories and fats that go with it -- we welcome these as they are our of our major source of energy to get by with exams and academic requirements.
Thus, for one to keep in shape, the right attitude, determination and discipline/willpower to succeed is necessary to accomplish this feat.
Having the right exercise regimens and dietary habits in one's younger days will also lessen the effort and difficulty in keepin one's body physically fit in the future.
I've been working behind a desk for about 7 years now... I don't think a "sedentary lifestyle" is what did it in my case. The change was a bit drastic and it occurred during the last few months. I think it was more of the slowing down of metabolism due to age, with a tinge of hereditary tendencies.
The effects of "purchasing power" doesn't apply much to me much either...my mom always had something for us to munch in the house during my "dependent days". I had the food I wanted within my grasp--even then.
I do agree that it will take discipline and will power to keep in shape. In the end, I think if will be worth the effort. Health is wealth after all. Thanks for your inputs, jester =).
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