After we turn 40 it becomes sometimes painfully obvious that we can no longer eat the way we did in our 30’s. For some people this has been the case for the last 20 years. Whatever the case, it becomes more important then ever to eat the right foods for health reasons and for reasons perhaps a little more vain, to stay slim. Below, we are going to discuss a few foods that you should add to your diet after you have hit the big
4-0. These foods will help you fight fat and live healthy.
1. Water: Drinking enough water is always very important but especially as we age. Instead of drinking calorie-laden sodas or sugary juices (unless they are 100%), water with a wedge of lemon can help you lose weight or keep it under control. There have also been some studies that suggest that drinking too much soda can lead to osteoporosis or bone loss because these types of drinks contain phosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid may cause an unbalance of acid in the blood which might cause bone loss.
2. Flaxseed: Flaxseed has lots of good, healthy fats and fiber. Consuming flax helps you feel fuller longer, which means less overeating (because of the fiber). The healthy fats that it contains help to protect your heart. Flax also aids in keeping sugar levels in check which means less temptation to eat everything in your fridge. You can consume ground flax or eat the seeds. They taste good sprinkled on salads or placed in soups.
3. Fiber: Fiber is one of the best foods that you can eat at any age. This becomes even more true after the age of 40. Fiber is extremely filling because it expands in the stomach. The results are that the desire to constantly snack and eat is diminished. This makes it easier to shed the weight. There are several ways to get the fiber that you need. You can take a supplement (powder) or eat foods that contain fiber. Beans, fruits and vegetables are all good sources.
4. Omega 3’s: Omega 3’s offer a couple of great benefits. They can help you manage your weight (or lose it). They are also fantastic for your heart. Two really good sources are nuts and salmon. Nuts, especially walnuts and almonds, help curb hunger. It is believed that combined with a healthy diet and exercise, eating a handful of nuts a day can help you lose weight. Salmon (tuna and sardines are also good choices) is another great food chock full of omega 3’s, vitamin D and calcium. Calcium and Vitamin D were found in a Kaiser Permanente study to help post-menopausal women lose weight. When people do not get enough Vitamin D weight gain can be the result. This vitamin enables leptin (a hormone that regulates hunger) to work most effectively.
5. Spicy Foods: I know there may be issues concerning heart burn here. However, it may be worth it if you are over 40 and want to lose weight. Hot, spicy foods help to decrease insulin levels which can help thwart the storage of fat. Insulin is believed to be lowered by more then 30%. To spice things up, add chile peppers to dishes that you want to add a “bite” to.
No related posts.