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I remember when I started practicing many, many years ago. I was in my early 30s. At the time, I could not understand why women would suddenly go from thin to heavy. They would tell me nothing has changed. They are doing the same thing they have always done, and their weight keeps increasing. I would not be convinced. Then one of my patients said, “Just wait until you reach my age; you will understand; you are too young; you just do not know.” The patient was in her mid-50s.

I can now officially say, “I understand.” Usually, I indulge during my birthday month, which is in February, knowing that when Lent comes around, I will lose the weight I gained in February. During Lent, I became disciplined in my diet. I usually give up on all desserts. My meals are small.   In the past, I would lose about 5 pounds or more, and that will cover the weight gain from my self-indulgence. This has been my ‘modus operandi,’ as I have done it for years. This year, my weight did not change. I was unable to lose weight. I was now starting to gain weight. I would look at the scale, and it would not budge downward. Last month, I felt that my clothing was a little snug. There was a dress that could not zip up. I was looking at the scale but kept telling myself it would come off. I am now 8 pounds heavier than I would like to be and told myself I have got to do something. Middle age had finally caught up with me. 

Last week, I returned to my blogs titled What is the best diet plan?  and What is the best diet plan? (Part 2) and decided to do what I preached. I know my Achilles’ heel – Nigerian peanuts with raisins (I am allergic to peanuts from the United States, another story for another blog), West Indian sweat bread, and Chin Chin ( Nigerian pastry). I printed my weight management program and decided to get busy. I have lost 1 pound since I started last week.

I realize I like to munch, so when I saw the AARP article, 10 Foods You Can Eat Without Gaining Weight, I was immediately drawn to it. Stephanie Watson wrote the article on January 20, 2023. As the article mentions, you can eat these foods with a balanced diet.

1. Celery
2. Lettuce
3. Watermelon
4. Broccoli and cauliflower
5. Grapefruit (be careful if you are on certain medications like statin – talk with your physician)
6. Mushrooms
7. Berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries)
8. Kiwi
9. Carrots
10. Spinach and kale

My friend was correct – once you reach 50, you must eat 50% less and work out 50% more to maintain weight. I will work on getting back to what I was earlier this year. I am glad to know there are snacks I can eat without weight gain. I will keep you posted on my journey.