The ultimate age-defying diet for the over-50s

Entering your next half century? Simply eating the right things can help you stay slim, fight wrinkles and keep your mind and body young, so start now with our simple eating plan...

GROWING older may be inevitable, but looking and feeling your age is not. The simple truth is, taking ‘years’ off your face and body, plus boosting your energy and health, all starts with eating the right foods.

A healthy diet full of lean proteins and wholegrains will help retain muscle tone but shift excess fat as you age, while plenty of fruit and veg will fight disease and also stave off those lines and wrinkles. So why is diet so important? Last year a UK report revealed that many over-50s had huge gaps in their diets. As a result, despite being heavier than ever, they simply weren’t getting enough of the nutrients that research has shown can slow down ageing.

“Rising life expectancy is masking a growing health concern,” warns Dr Gill Jenkins, a GP who specialises in medicine for older people. “We are living longer, but not better.”

In particular, many over-50s aren’t getting enough of these vital anti-ageing nutrients:

Omega 3 fatty acids from oily fish – despite clear evidence these fats can reduce the risk of age-related conditions such as heart disease and memory loss, and even fight skin ageing.

Vitamin D – vital for the immune system, cardiovascular health and strong bones.

Antioxidants from fruit and veg – shown to help fight skin ageing, a variety of diseases and age-related vision loss.

The great news is that help is at hand – our 50+ food plan is specially devised to ensure your diet is packed with all the nutrients you need to hold back the hands of time.