The older we get, the more certain foods can affect our health. Moreover, these include not only fast food or sweets, which, frankly, are harmful at any age. We are figuring out which products are better to give up if you are over 40 years old.
Sweeteners
All sugar-free sweets contain artificial sweeteners. According to the study, they cause digestive problems in many people, and after 40 years it is especially necessary to maintain intestinal health. Instead of desserts with sweeteners, it is better to choose fresh or frozen fruits.
Gluten-free bread
If you are not allergic to gluten, it is better to choose regular bread after a certain age. The fiber contained in it contributes to the health of the digestive system and colon, which is very important when we get older. Just make sure that you buy natural bread that does not contain preservatives and dyes that are harmful to the body and can ultimately do more harm than good.
Margarine
When people think about diet and weight loss, they automatically choose margarine as a lower-calorie substitute for butter. It does have fewer calories, but it is also a source of hydrogenated oil and trans fats, two factors that increase the risk of heart disease and cholesterol levels, which can grow very easily with age.
Pasta
Regular pasta contains a lot of carbohydrates, has a high glycemic index and quickly increases blood sugar levels. Since people over the age of 40 are at risk of developing diabetes due to an unhealthy diet, such carbohydrates do not contribute to maintaining health and maximum activity. Spikes in blood sugar can also accelerate aging. If you really like pasta, try spaghetti made from whole grain flour, which contains both healthy carbohydrates and fiber.
Hot sauces
Hot sauce and pepper seasonings can increase hot flashes caused by menopause in women. Either prepare the sauce for your dishes yourself, and make it minimally spicy, or replace it with spicy, but not peppery seasonings, such as turmeric.
Almond milk
It has recently become super popular, and many choose almond milk as a healthier alternative to cow’s milk. But if you do not have serious stomach problems, the use of cow’s milk becomes more and more important for the body with age. Almond milk does not provide as high a level of calcium as cow’s milk. And a lack of calcium can increase the likelihood of osteoporosis, a problem that often occurs in people over 40.
Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is also considered an excellent source of calcium, helps prevent osteoporosis and can even regulate blood pressure. However, many people do not realize that it is also very rich in sodium and contains about 800 mg per serving. And as we age, we need to reduce our sodium intake, as this can lead to an increased risk of stroke, heart failure, stomach cancer and kidney disease. After 40, you need to monitor how much sodium you consume, and there is usually too much of it in cottage cheese for the daily norm.
Meat delicacies
Sausage, ham, meat nuts and other smoked meats contain a huge amount of sodium, not to mention preservatives containing nitrates, which can provoke the development of cancer. The amount of sodium in one small serving of meat delicacies ranges from 310 to 480 milligrams. Constant consumption of this amount of sodium can increase the risk of high blood pressure, which is the main cause of heart disease and stroke. After 40 years, a much better alternative would be baked and sliced turkey, chicken or roast beef.
Low-fat yogurt
Fat is removed from such yogurt, and replaced with additional sugar to give the product at least some taste and consistency. And it is much more harmful to the body. In general, nutritionists urge not to be afraid of fat (of course, in moderation) — your body needs it.
Tuna
This fish is considered a healthy food and an excellent source of protein, but this does not detract from its disadvantages. In fact, tuna contains mercury, and when you consume too much of it, it can lead to all sorts of problems, including cognitive decline. And after 40 years, it becomes even more important to maintain your cognitive abilities.
