Weight-loss ANSWERS

Struggling to shift those extra pounds? Identify the problems and find out how to fix them with our quiz

Think it’s trickier now to stay slim than it was in your 20s? Sadly, you’re right. But you can still turn things around if you discover what’s derailing your diet. ‘Yes, it’s harder to lose weight after 50,’ says nutritionist Dr Marilyn Glenville, author of Natural Alternatives to Dieting (Natural Health Publications). ‘As we get older, we naturally lose muscle, making it harder to burn fat, and this causes our metabolism to slow down.’

But a healthy weight is essential for lowering your risk of arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Take our quiz to find out what’s holding you back – and how to fix it.

THE QUIZ

1 How well do you sleep at night?

A I used to sleep well, but now I wake during the night

B Very well

C It takes me a long time to drift off

D Even if I go to bed early, I often wake up tired

2 Do you take supplements?

A Yes, I have a cupboard full, but only take them when I remember

B Yes, a daily multivitamin

C No, I think they’re a waste of money

D I take something to boost energy first thing

3 How often do you exercise?

A As regularly as I can

B I don’t go to a gym, but I’m busy and always rushing around

C I don’t, really

D I sign up to new classes, then swap when I get bored