Every year we get older and before you know it, you are 50 years old and it’s more important than ever to take steps to stay healthy.
Our bodies have significantly changed not just by appearances but also by key functions.
Your gums might not be as strong as they once were, your taste buds might not be as receptive or you don’t even feel thirsty therefore leaving you constantly dehydrated.
Men have different dietary needs depending on their metabolic rate and the physical activities they engage in, however, the following healthy eating habits apply to all men in their 50s.
1. Eat the Right Amount of Salt
As you mark the half-century milestone, high blood pressure is a common issue you may have to deal with.
High BP is sometimes attributed to salt. If so, this does not necessarily mean that you will now have to eat “flat food”.
You could supplement table salt with sodium-free or low sodium alternatives.
You could also try to season your food with garlic powder, citrus, dill, onion powder and healthier salt (like Himalayan). .
2. Avoid Trans Fats
Eating mostly healthy fats is a fantastic idea at any age, as is avoiding trans and hydrogenated fats.
Trans and hydrogenated fats stick around in your system way longer than most other ingestible things.
This is, in part, due to your body not knowing what to do with it.
These fats are best to avoid at all costs.
3. Increase your intake of foods rich in fiber.
As you age your digestive system functionality also ages, this is noted by slowed gastrointestinal functions.
The best way to promote this function is to eat enough fiber.
Your meals should include more fiber-rich foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain pasta, brown rice and oatmeal.
Research shows that increasing dietary fiber significantly reduces cholesterol and gastrointestinal inflammation.
It also regulates how carbohydrates are realized into your bloodstream, providing you with much-needed energy.
4. Water
Water is crucial for your metabolic system and well being as a whole. However, thirst sensation declines as you age and as a result, dehydration is more common that you think.
Ensure that you take enough water every day regardless of your thirst. A great tip is to buy a water bottle and keep track of how many times you refill it in a day.
5. Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits are important to all ages as they are packed with much needed vitamins and nutrients.
As you age, increase your intake of fruits as well. Ensure that you take at least five servings per day.
You could have them dried, fresh or even frozen, all that matters is you have them in your diet for healthy living,
6. Proteins
Protein is essential for building muscle. Men 50 and over are at risk for losing muscle mass and need to ensure that they eat enough protein.
This doesn’t necessarily mean eating more bacon.
There are many products such as protein bars, shakes and even plant-based proteins such as soy, nuts, beans, quinoa and seeds.
You can’t prevent growing old. However, that doesn’t mean that you should enjoy life past 50.
You can slow down the aging process and stay healthy by sticking to healthy eating habits.
What you put into your system determines what your body gives you.