For healthy 40s
While what you eat is important at all ages, in your forties, it is the basis of an uphill or a downhill road to health. However, it is often observed that people regain health and beauty even after years of eating unhealthy and lack of a disciplined lifestyle. The change is evident in factors such as energy levels, skin, immune function, weight, mood, blood sugar, etc. So, it’s never too late.
After the age of forty, the body responds differently — sugar cravings increase, you feel less energetic and your appetite for starchy food (rice, pasta, bread) may increase. At the same time, your metabolism slows down and your body needs fewer calories to get through the day. From a health perspective, here are some ways to deal with this transition. Age-defying fitness tips: ■ To start with, manage
your weight
■ Consume fresh green juices, vegetable juices (spinach, bottle gourd, bitter gourd, carrot, tomato, beet), coconut water and plenty of water with a squeeze of lemon. Green juices and vegetable juices will supply your body with plenty of vitamins, minerals and chlorophyll ■ Add more protein in your diet, as in your 40s, it is the key to preventing agerelated muscle loss.
■ Make sure you weighttrain once a week. It will improve your health by raising the metabolism, keeping blood sugar level in check, improving your brain function, and will lower the risk of lifestyle diseases.
■ Increase the fibre content in your diet by eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables and whole pulses.
■ Free radicals are known to accelerate the ageing process. Antioxidants like vitamin E, C, A, selenium, bioflavonoids and polyphenols are known to douse freeradical activity and slow down the ageing process.
■ Love is rejuvenating. It makes life meaningful. It has healing energy. It is a powerful stimulant to the immune system. People, who bond well with family and friends, feel contented and are better equipped to fight diseases. The act of giving and receiving love acts as a shield from the stress of life and prevents needless ageing. A loving relationship with anyone — even plants and pets — is good for longevity and youthfulness.