Running vs. Walking for Weight Loss: What's Best for You?

Question
I have researched this online but cant find an answer to the running vs. walking for weight loss question. So many different opinions, I am hopefull that a doctor can give me some insight!
Like most 55 year olds I am fighting the battle of the bulge, in spite of eating very healthy, and less total calories per day then when I was younger.
I used to run 30 minutes a day on my treadmill, apparently that wasnt good enough so I switched to 'interval training' and all that gave me was very sore feet and tendonitis.
After I recovered I decided to go for long walks. I was a poor  skinny kid but like everyone back then we walked every where.
I have been walking an hour a day for a couple weeks and I actually have cinched my belt in one notch!
BTW in MY neighourhood walking inside in the air conditioning is much safer than outside.
MY neighbor was an old Polish lady and she walked to the market and back every day. She could have gotten a ride or took the bus but this is what she was used to from the old country.
So, is walking, especially at my age, better than running for weight loss, and how much? I can do an hour now before I get sore and tired-should I try to build up to 90 minutes or more?
Thanks!


Answer
The answer to this will be an opinion... there are many opinions and many ways to lose weight.....

The critical part of a weight loss plan is your diet.  You have to eat less than you use consistently over time.  You can increase the amount you use via walking/running.  Running for the same amount of time burns more calories than walking but both can contribute to weight loss.  

On the diet, if you eat less than you use for 3 days or so, you will induce your "fat burning" enzymes to burn fat for energy.  If you slip, and pig out once, you will shut that down and it will take 3 days to rev those up again.  So consistency is the key to your diet.  The people who diet during the week and cheat on weekends never get anywhere.  And look out for hidden calories..... sugared sodas, alcohol, etc.  Some healthy foods have more calories than you think.  

Good luck with it.