I think weight loss can be very tough, especially as we age and with medical concerns as well. What has helped me most is to cut out almost all processed foods. Basically if it comes in a box, package or bag with an ingredient list, I avoid it. I make my own homemade bread now and follow a mostly Mediterranean diet. I find that portions are also key; I use smaller plates and then it looks way more full! I also try and eat heart healthy: chicken (white, no skin), turkey, eggs, fish, beans for protein, all organic fruits and veggies, sea salt and a tiny bit of table salt with iodine, all healthy grains: oats, almond and coconut flour, and others (as your tummy can handle), healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocado (although I am allergic to these), and I only drink filtered water and herbal teas (no caffeine.). For a treat I make homemade almond cookies with fresh pumpkin and a touch of maple syrup. The treats I have now are fruits, a touch of maple syrup or honey, a little coconut sugar and dark chocolate with almonds. If we are going out, I always look ahead at the menu, to make sure I have heart healthy choices. And I often bring my own food to gatherings, no one seems to care and I focus on the visiting, not the eating and drinking. This is hard at times…but, I’ve lost 40 lbs in the last year and feel great! Sadly, my husband just had a heart attack and heart surgery and eats terribly and drinks a lot …he will have to change, but it’s his choice…I’m done being the mom and god police, lol!! Ok, hang in there!!

Also, I try to get to the gym 3x a week, and walk at least 1 mile a day, often more. Wearing a Fitbit or Apple Watch really motivates me too! If I sit too long, the Apple Watch will nudge you to stand and get up and move. It can also monitor your heart rate. Ok, hope this helps you and others on here!! Last tip is to stay grateful and connected to others! Social interaction and friends/family is key to longevity and health. Check out the Blue Zones…excellent resources and books!! Eat mostly plant based is their motto! Good luck!!! And, I lost a lot of my weight with intermittent fasting…really amazing!! Last tip, start and end each day with gratitude and prayer 🙏!! Holiday blessings to y’all!! Merry Christmas and have a healthy, safe 2024!! Mia 😎👍