As a woman steadily advances in her 40s, her body undergoes a plethora of changes with myriad manifestations. With a sluggish metabolism and menopause knocking on her door, she becomes more prone to weight gain, mood swings, osteoporosis, and sometimes, even the initial stages of chronic illnesses. A rollercoaster ride indeed!

However, 40s aren’t as terrifying as they seem. By this stage, women can pat their backs at having built a sturdy career and celebrating several milestones. In fact, they can lead this decade quite vivaciously if they maintain a healthy diet and get regular exercise.

Clem Onojeghuo/Unsplash | Women over 40 have a lot to deal with, but a good diet and regular physical activity can help keep problems at bay

Renowned health experts recommend that women over 40 years of age should indeed switch to a balanced and nutrition-rich diet to boost their overall health for the coming years. According to them, here are the best foods that they should start including in their palette once they hit 40.

Chia Seeds

Hailed as a ‘superfood’, these tiny seeds are a powerhouse of fiber, omega 3 linoleic fatty acids, magnesium, calcium, antioxidants, and protein. Amalgamation is extremely beneficial as it helps older people maintain bone density. And the best part is that chia seeds can stabilize menopausal mood swings too.

Avocados

Packed with healthy fats, avocados regulate cholesterol levels, improve digestion, support joint health and agility, promote eye health and good vision, and maintain a healthy weight. Plus, the potassium content and antioxidants in them bring a glow to the skin and are also great for hair. Also, avocado toast; delicious!

Louis Hansel/Unsplash | Packed with healthy fats, avocados regulate cholesterol, improve digestion, support joint health, promote good vision, and make your skin glow

Oily Fish

Fatty fishes like salmon, trout, herring and mackerel are rich in protein and omega 3, which immensely help in combating heart diseases and slow age-related mental decline. Besides curbing one’s hunger for a long time, oily fishes reduce menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats. They are also rich in Vitamin D which again are very necessary to combat osteoporosis.

Greek Yogurt

With absolutely no sodium, Greek Yogurt is an exceptional source of calcium and protein. Also, its thicker consistency aids in keeping you full for a longer period of time.

Nuts

Do you munch on junk food whenever you feel hunger pangs? We have something for you that is healthy and would keep you full for a long time. Being high in fiber, healthy fats and proteins, nuts help in weight loss. Also, the high levels of antioxidant selenium in them defend against chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer, kidney and heart related diseases.

Pratik Bachhav/Unsplash | Being high in fiber, healthy fats, proteins and antioxidants, nuts help in weight loss and protect against deadly illnesses

Dark Chocolate

Chocolates might be the first thing you’d like to avoid in your 40s, but dark chocolate has actually got a whole range of benefits packed inside. It contains high levels of flavanol which are exceptionally good for the ageing heart, it helps the skin to look hydrated and youthful, and it lowers blood pressure. However, make sure to choose dark chocolate with 70% cocoa and less than 6 grams of added sugar to experience these benefits.

To wrap it up

Although escalating weight might engender stress in you, weight loss shouldn’t be the solitary reason to consume these healthy foods. Have them to promote your overall health. Also, learn to accept the new you and remember that you’re beautiful just the way you are!

Minnie Lane