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Weight Management

Weight Loss for Men Over 40: What Actually Works

Why the diet and exercise advice that worked in your 20s doesn't work anymore—and what to do instead.

By Dr. Carlos Feliciano, MD
December 15, 2024
8 min read

If you're a man over 40 struggling to lose weight, you've probably noticed something frustrating: the same strategies that worked when you were younger just don't work anymore. This isn't a failure of willpower. It's biology.

Why Traditional Diets Fail After 40

Myth: "Just eat less and exercise more"

Metabolic rate drops 2-4% per decade after 30. What worked at 25 often doesn't work at 45.

Myth: "Willpower is all you need"

Hormones like leptin and ghrelin control hunger signals. When dysregulated, no amount of willpower can overcome constant hunger.

Myth: "All calories are equal"

Processed carbs spike insulin, promoting fat storage. Protein and healthy fats don't trigger the same response.

Myth: "Cardio is the answer"

Excessive cardio without strength training can reduce muscle mass, lowering metabolic rate.

The Hormone Factor

Testosterone

Impact: Low T promotes belly fat storage and makes building muscle harder.

Solution: TRT can restore metabolic rate and make exercise more effective.

Insulin

Impact: Insulin resistance makes your body store more fat and resist burning it.

Solution: GLP-1 medications improve insulin sensitivity and reduce hunger.

Cortisol

Impact: Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which promotes abdominal fat storage.

Solution: Stress management, sleep optimization, and hormone balance.

Thyroid

Impact: Even "low-normal" thyroid function can slow metabolism significantly.

Solution: Comprehensive thyroid testing and optimization if needed.

What Actually Works for Men Over 40

GLP-1 Medications (Semaglutide)

FDA-approved medications that reduce appetite and improve insulin sensitivity. Average weight loss of 15-20% of body weight.

Significant reduction in appetite and cravings
Improved blood sugar control
Once-weekly injection
Clinically proven

Hormone Optimization

Addressing low testosterone and other hormonal imbalances that make weight loss difficult.

Increased energy for exercise
Better muscle retention
Improved fat distribution
Enhanced mood and motivation

Medical Supervision

A physician-supervised program that monitors your health and adjusts treatment as needed.

Regular lab monitoring
Personalized adjustments
Identification of underlying conditions
Accountability and support

Our Weight Loss Program

Our 24-week medical weight loss program combines GLP-1 medications with comprehensive metabolic testing, hormone optimization, and ongoing medical supervision. Most patients lose 15-25% of their body weight.

Same-day lab testing
Hormone analysis included
GLP-1 medication included
Ongoing medical supervision

Ready to Lose Weight That Stays Off?

Start with a free consultation and comprehensive lab testing.