IN YOUR 40s

It’s all about hormones. As you enter perimenopause, oestrogen levels drop, so you have less of its protective effects. Now’s a good time to talk to your doctor and get the inside word on how your hormones are tracking.

Your advantages

• Metabolism Use this window when your metabolism is pre y strong to get your eating habits in order. Healthy eating now helps to offset a slowing metabolism later. A favourite eating plan of cardiologists is The Mediterranean Diet, which is plant-based with lots of brightly coloured produce (especially green leafy vegetables), beans, whole grains, healthy fats, nuts and seeds, and fish (aim for twice a week). Lean protein (chicken, turkey) is also recommended, and lean pork and beef are OK in moderation.