Let’s face it – by the time we reach a certain age our bodies just aren’t what they used to be. Long gone are the days of indulging in that sugary donut or an extra glass of wine (or two) without feeling the effects of it the next day. We may feel young and vibrant on the inside, but if you’re over 40 the outside just doesn’t seem to reflect that anymore.
Check out these tips for how to eat when you’re over 40 if you want to continue being a badass babe!
Forget Fad diets
A lot of people want a quick fix for the extra belly fat that just won’t go away. If you’re over 40, however, relying on a fad diet to swiftly melt away those extra pounds will do you more harm than good. Fad diets can cause you to miss out on key nutrients your body needs to safeguard muscle mass and bone density.
The best remedy for that stubborn belly fat is a combination of proper diet and exercise. No more quick fixes or shortcuts. Just stick to the basics and be consistent and you will see results.
It’s All About the Protein
As you get older you will need to consume fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. However, calories from protein should at the bottom of your to-ditch list. Protein is such a versatile part of your diet. Not only does it help to lose stubborn belly fat build and repair muscle tissue, but it also helps curb your appetite.
When you don’t get enough protein your muscles begin to shrink and your health begins to decline. In fact, fatigue, weight gain, and a weakened immune system are all side effects of not getting enough protein.
How much protein should you be getting daily? While an average woman needs 40-50 grams of protein to maintain, active women need more. To find your goal protein intake, experts suggest multiplying your body weight in kilograms by 1.3.
Don’t Skip Breakfast (or any meal)
This rule is really more of a universal rule, but it’s so much more important as you get older. Just because your body doesn’t need as many calories doesn’t mean you can skip out on eating meals. In fact, it could really have a detrimental effect on your metabolism. Skipping a meal often leads to blood sugar crashes that can spark overeating and junk food binging.
Your body needs proper nutrients to keep you alert and focused. Take control of your metabolism by eating three small meals and two healthy snacks throughout your day.
Monitor Your Sugar Intake
Remember the days when you could indulge in that extra cookie and didn’t see it on your waistline the next day? Those were the days….
As you get older, your metabolism slows down and your body changes, your risk for diabetes goes up. At some point, you have to remove (or at least cut back) white sugar and high fructose corn syrup from your diet. And that means it's important to make the right choices for a healthy lifestyle. It’s never too late to start eating well.
Healthy snack options can be found all around us so there is no excuse not to have something on hand at any time of day or night!
What are some of your favorite go-to snacks that keep you feeling full without making any major dietary changes? Let us know in the comments below!
If this blog has been useful to you please share it with friends who are also interested in staying fit and eating well as they age. Women like yourself know what matters most- looking good but feeling great for as long as possible.
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