4 Surprising Benefits of Losing Weight After 50

Although losing weight at any age has considerable health benefits, it turns out that dropping a few pounds after age 50 might be especially good for you.

Hormonal and metabolic changes that commonly take place after 50 make it easier to pack on weight, Kristine Gedroic, MD, medical director of the Gedroic Medical Institute, tells LIVESTRONG.com. But while weight gain after 50 might be common, it can also be dangerous: Putting on pounds at this age, Dr. Gedroic says, increases the risk of diseases like stroke and diabetes.

But while weight gain might be risky, weight loss is possible — and worth it if your weight has crept into the unhealthy range. Here are a few of the most notable benefits.