By Dr. Aldo Moran, Market Medical Director, Flagship Health

As we age, our bodies change in ways we may not always expect. Metabolism, which once kept us energized and thriving, starts to slow down. Suddenly, weight management feels like an uphill battle, blood sugar levels creep up, and cholesterol numbers aren’t what they used to be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Metabolic disorders—like diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol—are common among seniors. But here’s the good news: with the right approach, these conditions can be managed, and you can continue living a full, active life. Let’s break it down.

How Aging Affects Metabolism

It’s a common belief that metabolism dramatically slows as we age, but recent research suggests it actually stays fairly stable until around age 60. After that, it gradually declines. That means weight gain and energy loss aren’t just about "getting older"—they’re influenced by factors like muscle loss, hormonal shifts, and lifestyle habits.

One major concern is metabolic syndrome, which is a combination of high blood sugar, excess belly fat, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Why does this matter? Because having metabolic syndrome significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and even dementia. In fact, researchers are finding stronger links between metabolic disorders and Alzheimer’s disease, making it even more important to stay on top of your health.

How to Keep Your Metabolism in Check

The key to managing metabolic health isn’t about fad diets or extreme workouts—it’s about sustainable, long-term habits. Here’s where to focus:

1. Get Regular Check-Ups

Catching problems early makes all the difference. Regular bloodwork and health screenings can identify high blood sugar, cholesterol issues, and other warning signs before they lead to bigger problems.

2. Eat Smart, Not Less

Forget restrictive diets—focus on real, whole foods. Load up on lean proteins, fiber-rich veggies, healthy fats, and whole grains. Cut back on processed foods, excess sugar, and salty snacks, which can contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance.

3. Get Moving Every Day 

You don’t need to run marathons or lift heavy weights to keep your metabolism humming. Walking, swimming, stretching, and light resistance training can all help maintain muscle mass, improve insulin sensitivity, and keep your heart healthy. Even 15-30 minutes a day makes a difference!

4. Manage Your Weight (The Right Way)

Losing weight can be trickier as we age, but extreme diets aren’t the answer. Instead, focus on building muscle through strength training and eating enough protein. Recent studies show that muscle mass is more important than weight itself when it comes to aging well.

5. Use Medications When Needed

Sometimes, lifestyle changes aren’t enough. Medications for diabetes, cholesterol, or blood pressure can play a crucial role in keeping metabolic disorders under control. The key is working with your doctor to find the right balance.

What’s New in Metabolic Health?

The medical field is always evolving, and we’re seeing exciting advances in the treatment of metabolic disorders. Here are three notable developments:

• New diabetes treatments that go beyond insulin, helping the body regulate blood sugar more effectively.
• FDA-approved therapies for rare metabolic conditions, showing promise for broader applications.
• Wearable tech and digital health tools that allow seniors to track key health metrics from home, making it easier to stay on top of their well-being.

These innovations mean better options and better outcomes for seniors managing metabolic disorders today.

The Bottom Line

Aging may bring some metabolic challenges, but you have more control over your health than you think. With regular check-ups, a balanced diet, daily movement, and the right medical support, you can feel good, stay strong, and enjoy life to the fullest.

At Flagship Health, we specialize in helping seniors navigate these changes with personalized care and expert guidance. If you have concerns about your metabolic health, we’re here to help.

Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.

About Dr. Aldo Moran

Dr. Aldo Moran is the Market Medical Director for Flagship Health in San Antonio, Texas. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Nova Southeastern University and completed his Internal Medicine Residency at the University of the Incarnate Word in Laredo, Texas. Before his medical career, Dr. Moran served seven years in the U.S. Army, including deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he was an infantry squad leader and the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defense operations. Fluent in English and Spanish, he has been practicing since 2019, focusing on diabetes and metabolism disorders, cardiovascular disease prevention, and preventive medicine.