The most important thing you can do for your health if you are over 50 is to keep it in good shape. You can reduce your risk of chronic disease and premature death by staying up-to-date on cancer screenings and vaccinations, being active, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, and eating nutrient-dense foods.
The Mayo Clinic says you may notice heart, digestion, bone health, and weight management changes as you age. Changing your diet and lifestyle can enormously impact your health as you age.
Learn more about the eating habits you should try to avoid after 50 from expert dietitians. Check out these Exercises To Slow Aging After 50 for tips beyond food.
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Not Eating Enough Fruits And Vegetables
You can get various essential nutrients and antioxidants from fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, and author, says that fiber content in produce is crucial as you age.
Manaker said, “Including enough fiber can help keep bowel movements regular, which can be challenging for older people. A lack of fiber can also harm your health in the long run. It is therefore important that those over 50 avoid skipping fruits and vegetables.”
The Lack Of Protein In Your Diet
It is crucial for people over 50 to consume adequate amounts of protein daily. A natural process leads to muscle mass loss over time. Clair said, “We naturally lose muscle mass in the aging process, so by not eating enough protein, we contribute to faster lean muscle mass loss.”
Although many research studies point to the benefits of a high-protein diet for overall health, especially muscle mass, many adults still don’t consume enough. Your doctor can determine how much protein you should consume per day if you’re unsure about your protein intake.
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Leaving The Yolks Out Of Your Egg Dishes
Egg yolks may be bad for you if you have high cholesterol, but you may have heard this all your life. Manaker says eating egg yolks as you age can provide helpful nutrients. Older adults need to include egg yolks in their diet because they provide them with essential nutrients. Manaker said, “The yolk is a nutritional powerhouse that contains many brain health-supporting nutrients like choline.”