Youth
Youth is wasted on the young. Some attribute this quote to George Bernard Shaw while others consider it an idiom. Whichever attribution you prefer, the sentiment is true. We don’t appreciate our young knees, young backs, and, perhaps most importantly, our young metabolisms while we have them.
As We Age
As we age, maintaining optimal health becomes increasingly important. Women over 40 experience hormonal changes and our metabolisms slow down, so it’s essential to prioritize nutrition to support overall well-being and weight management. Fortunately, nature has provided us with an array of superfoods packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and other health-promoting compounds.
Superfoods
Our health, like all the other areas of our lives, is created through consistency in the habits we choose. Staying well hydrated, participating in some kind of exercise, and eating well most of the time go a long way to helping your metabolism work most effectively whether you’re 40, 50, or beyond. Here are some superfoods that help enhance metabolic health and support weight loss or weight maintenance.
Avocado is an incredible superfood. It is:
- Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
- Full of fiber
- A good source of potassium
- Is great for helping you feel full and satisfied longer
Salmon is so good for us. It is:
- Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids
- An excellent source of protein
- A natural source of vitamin D
- Essential to brain and heart health
Berries. Yum! All the berries – blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are:
- Loaded with antioxidants
- Excellent sources of several vitamins
- Full of fiber
Although many think it’s a grain, quinoa is a seed from a flowering plant. It’s incredibly healthy because it is:
- A complete protein
- Contains all nine essential amino acids
- A healthy alternative to rice or pasta
Aside from quinoa, other seeds and nuts are incredibly healthy. Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds are rich in:
- Healthy fats
- Protein
- Fiber
Another superfood, Greek yogurt, promotes digestive health. It also:
- Supports muscle growth and repair
- Is high in protein
- Is a great source of probiotics
- Helps keep you feeling full
Lastly, leafy greens like spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and others are nutritional powerhouses. They are packed with:
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Phytonutrients
Easy Ways To Incorporate Them Into Your Diet
Including these foods into your daily diet isn’t complicated and meal prep can be quick and easy. You can:
- Start your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie made with spinach, berries, Greek yogurt, and a scoop of protein powder.
- Whip up a colorful salad with mixed greens, avocado, grilled salmon, quinoa, and a variety of colorful vegetables.
- Snack on sliced cucumber or bell pepper with hummus or guacamole for a satisfying and nutritious midday pick-me-up.
- Indulge in a decadent yet healthy dessert by blending frozen bananas with cocoa powder and a handful of nuts or seeds for a creamy and delicious alternative to ice cream.
HEBE Aesthetics and Vitality
HEBE Aesthetics and Vitality in the Atlanta, GA area, is committed to supporting your weight loss and good health. We understand the challenges associated with losing weight when you’re 40 and older. Contact us today so we can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight for you.
Disclaimer: The information contained here was not written by a medical doctor and is intended for informational purposes only. This is not a substitute for medical advice.
