Aging is a process that no one can avoid despite the many cosmetic procedures that are available today. However, this phase in your life should bring you excitement and not fear. With a proper lifestyle and some tips on keeping yourself healthy, you can maintain a happy, youthful glow.
Recharge Your Metabolism
Your body finds it easier to gain weight and lose it once you reach 40. The main reason behind it is that as you grow older, your body’s metabolism slows down. At this point, estrogen levels decrease, causing insulin levels to increase and the thyroid levels to decrease. These changes, all together, often result in you feeling hungry all the time, which can lead to a high intake of calories.
Another factor that affects your aging body’s slow metabolism is the build-up in your digestive tract. These clogs prevent your vital organs such as the stomach and the liver from performing at their peak level. To help clear out the clogs, you must increase your intake of fiber and enzymes. You also need to stay away from refined sugars, gluten, and dairy because they potentially add more mucus to your systems.
You can also have smoothies for breakfast because these liquids packed with nutrients can help kick-start your metabolism in the morning. You can focus on blending greens, high-fiber fruits, and lemon juice because this combination is high in enzymes that help flush out toxins from your body.
Take Care of Your Bones
The bone density and mass decrease because of the loss of minerals and calcium. As you age, the disk or gel-like cushion between the bones in your spine becomes shorter. The disks also gradually become thinner and gradually loses fluids. This is one of the main reasons women in their 40 experience early signs of osteoporosis and brittle bones and changes in their posture.
The recommended calcium intake is 1,000 mg to most adults and 1,200 mg for women after menopause. To help your body during this phase, you must take supplements such as calcium and vitamin D.
You can also eat foods rich in these vitamins, such as dairy and green leafy vegetables. They are known as powerful aids in strengthening your bones. In addition, you can also take vitamins that have Omega-3 fatty acids or take it naturally by eating fish like tuna and salmon.
Proper daily exercise is also needed to strengthen your bones. You can do brisk walking, or if it’s not possible because of the lockdown, you can climb up and down your stairs or walk around your backyard for at least 30 minutes. Experts also recommend that you get as much exposure to the sun as to get natural vitamin D.
Pay Attention to Your Dental Health
Your gums, teeth, and overall oral cavity needs extra care now that you are 40. Just like any part of your body, your teeth and mouth also experience changes. Because of years and years of gnawing and chewing, the outer layer of enamel on your teeth flattens overtimes. The surfaces have also been exposed to acidic foods like carbonated beverages and citrus that dissolve the protective enamel.
The nerves in your tooth’s core lose sensitivity as you age, and the problem may already be advanced way before you feel any pain. You will also notice the yellowish hue on your teeth because, over the years, they have been stained by tobacco, red wine, coffee, and tea.
There are many ways for you to bring back that warm smile of yours. Dentists offer services that range from cleaning, dentures, braces to the latest treatment called Invisalign. It is best to schedule a consultation to determine what type of treatment you can do for your teeth.
Protect Your Crowning Glory
Another physical change that women encounter once they hit 40 is hair loss. Your hair may be thinning out a bit because as you grow older, your estrogen level decreases. Estrogen plays an important role in hair growth among women, which may become more prevalent as you approach and go through menopause.
Another reason for hair loss after menopause is inflammation which can destroy your hair follicles. It often leaves scarring, thin eyebrows and may cause your hairline above the forehead to recede. Make sure to address inflammation as soon as you experience symptoms because hair cannot grow back after scarring.
To prevent this from happening, you can take supplements rich in Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Zinc, and Iron. You can also limit the frequency of washing your hair with shampoo to retain natural oil. Choose conditioners, and as much as possible, avoid treatments that use strong chemicals such as coloring.
They say life begins at 40, and for many women, this is the time in their lives when they begin experiencing changes in their bodies. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be scared of. Enjoy this milestone in your life and continue taking care of your health and overall well-being.
Meta title:Middle-aged Women’s Health: Caring for Your Aging Self
meta desc: Though age is just a number, women’s bodies still go through changes when they hit 40. You need to focus on your health now that you’ve reached this age.
