First, welcome to MedHelp and the WL&D community. Thank you for posting and asking some very pertinent and detailed questions. We're thrilled you are here! Your fortitude and persistence stay mobile and claim your health is inspirational.
Based on 56 years of age, height of 5'11", 252 pounds, female and a somewhat active lifestyle, the calories needed to MAINTAIN your weight is 2,000 calories a day. For each pound you wish to lose, you have to save 3,500 calories or expend additional exercise to burn calories. MedHelp has an exercise tracker that you may find very useful in this area. MedHelp is currently working on a food tracker so, in the meantime, I use the package calorie information in combination with www.calorieking.com to look up the calories of the foods I eat. Personally, I have to stay around 1,300 to 1,400 calories to continue to lose weight. I could increase this if I would add more exercise into my daily regimen.
msniki412, one of MedHelp's WL&D community members, made a jounal entry that
provides some food ideas.
http://www.medhelp.org/user_journals/show/82777 I completely agree with her in eating 3 small meals and 3 snacks a day. It keeps our metabolism working, keeps our blood sugar levels more consistent and aids in feeling full and satiated throughout the day.
In regard to the gym, if you like the structure and can afford it, go for it .. if you have your doctor's permission to do so. Once released for exercise, you can also choose exercises at home. Changing your exercise every day in a random pattern will keep your body functioning at it's highest metabolic rate. You see, our bodies adapt quickly so walking day after day, while beneficial, is not as beneficial as changing up your routines. Pilates, swimming, bicycle riding and yoga are all exercises that may be easier than others and help build your core.
Thanks again for joining us here and we hope you will be an active participant in the community. Very best wishes ..