Getting a balanced diet
One of the best ways to lead a healthier lifestyle after our 40s is by having a healthy diet. After we turn 40, our metabolism begins to slow. Because of this, it’s important to fuel our body with good foods while limiting junk & processed foods. Maintaining a healthy diet can help prevent weight gain and minimise the risk of common health issues like high blood pressure, high blood sugar, diabetes, heart disease, and prostate health. Nutritious diet also helps in keeping an individual mentally sharp and gives energy to enjoy day-to-day activities.
As we reach our 40s, paying close attention to our nutrition becomes key to our overall health.
The foods we eat can help promote good health and slow down age-related changes to our body, such as a slow metabolism, muscle loss, and bone loss.
We should try to consume a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants while focusing on whole, minimally processed foods.
Eating enough protein helps build and preserve lean muscle mass, which is important for an active lifestyle, a strong metabolism, and proper immune health
With small changes to our diet, we can ensure that we are thriving for years to come.
Scientists suggest that we should eat an overall healthy dietary pattern that emphasises:
• a wide variety of fruits and vegetables
• whole grains and products made up mostly of whole grains
• healthy sources of protein
• liquid non-tropical vegetable oils
• minimally processed foods
• minimised intake of added sugars
• foods prepared with little or no salt
• limited or preferably no alcohol intake
Use the Healthy Eating Plate from Harvard school of public health, as a guide for creating healthy, balanced meals