12 of the worse foods men over 40 should avoid -

12 of the worse foods men over 40 should avoid

In our early twenties, we would party all weekend, eating and drinking things we probably should not of. Yet many of us back then did not even put on a pound of weight.

The same men that we once were could not even look at a pizza without dreading the scales the next day. And rightfully so being overweight comes with many health concerns including diabetes, heart disease, some cancers and high blood pressure.

Men’s health is of paramount importance as it directly influences not only the individual’s quality of life but also the well-being of families and communities.

Regular health check-ups and preventive measures are crucial for early detection and management of conditions that predominantly affect men, such as prostate and testicular cancers. Promoting a healthy lifestyle that includes balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management is essential in preventing a range of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders. By prioritising men’s health, we empower individuals to lead longer, more productive lives and reduce the overall burden on healthcare systems.

Furthermore, addressing men’s health is integral to fostering a culture of well-being that goes beyond physical health. Mental health awareness is a crucial component, as men are often less likely to seek help for mental health challenges. By breaking down stereotypes and encouraging open conversations, we can destigmatise seeking support for mental health concerns. Prioritising men’s health is an investment in stronger, more resilient communities where individuals can thrive in all aspects of their lives, creating a positive ripple effect on societal well-being.

One thing all people should look at is boosting brain power, Regardless of sex, age, gender or race.

Gaining a beer belly is now easier than gaining or even maintaining a six pack for many men over the age of forty.

Belly fat or more commonly known as a beer belly is a term used to note a person has formed fat under the abdominal skin. This fat sits around our abdominal organs filling the voids in between them. These organs includes the stomach, the Duodenum, jejunum and ileum of the intestines the colon, spleen and liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, blood vessels and the bladder.

The main reason that men in their forty put on this layer of fat around their abdomen is due to a change in the metabolism.

Once we start to reach our early to mid-thirty’s we start to lose muscle mass. Muscles burn a lot of calories so if we are losing muscle mass and still eating the same amount of calorie then weight gain will occur. So, to counter this it is especially important that men entering their mid-thirties to forty’s stay active, or become physically active and keep an eye on how many calories they consume.

For exercise you need to be looking at 150 minutes of moderate to high intensity aerobic exercises. This includes jogging, swimming, cycling, walking briskly, mountain climbing. Resistance work is also especially important so do not forget to lift those weights.

Fibre

I always suggest that we up our fibre for many reason, it helps us to feel full. It lowers cholesterol, stabilise energy, and lowers the risk of colon cancer. Upping fibre intake may sound easy but on average we only get around eighteen of the thirty recommended grams of fibre a day.

Hydration

Everybody should aim to drink around eight glasses of water a day. Water helps regulate our body temperature, it helps to keep our joints lubricated, water helps to deliver the nutrients we get from our food to our cells all over the body. Having good hydration also aids in good sleep hygiene and it helps our organs to function at their peak.

We can also get the water we need from the food that we drink, high watery foods includes: apples at 88% water, pink grapefruit at 91% water, raspberries at 87% water, watermelon at 92%water, pineapple at 87% water, honeydew melon at 90% water, cucumber at 95% water, yellow bell pepper at 92% water, iceberg lettuce at 96% water, and broccoli at 92% water.

So what are my top twelve foods that men over 40 should avoid?

Salt

Always be aware of your salt, but do not cut it out of your diet. Yes, salt is said to raise blood pressure however it has not been scientifically proven.

And at best only drops a person blood pressure down a minimal amount. however, you should always aim to have under six grams of salt a day. Salt helps to balance our blood sugars, it also helps to balance our stomach acid.

Sodium is one of minerals which is necessary to maintain electrolytes balance, salt lowers blood cortisol levels which can help maintain a healthy weight, slat plays a role in keeping a normal thyroid function as iodine is critical for our thyroid health.

It can help support a healthy metabolism. So please do not just cut our salt just be careful how much you are having. As an electrolyte sodium helps the nerves send electrical signals to our muscles which then tells them to contact

Artificial protein

Although they are dubbed as natural, whey protein or plant protein, but actually they are not. They are loaded with fat and artificial sweeteners, hydrogenated oils and flavours and can be toxic for your liver and bad for your heart.

Margarine

Especially because of the propylene glycol within the margarine with a rating of three it is said to only cause moderate health issues. It can cause a whole host of problems for a person’s health. And it is not just in margarine propylene is in soap, toothpaste and shampoo and it can be found in certain medications. It acts in a way that your skin will allow other harmful chemicals into your bloodstream by altering the structure of the skin.

Other names for propylene are

Methyl glycol

Trimethyl glycol

1,2-dihydroxy propane

1,2 propane

Artificial sweeteners

These are often used to sweeten drinks for those who are looking to lose weight and cut down on their sugar intake. Sweetness are similar to normal table sugar but can be thousand times sweeter. Due to this intensity of sweetness, they are only needed in small quantities so can be near to zero when it comes to calories. Studies have shown that artificial sweeteners can affect the gut microbes. When this happens a person can develop metabolic syndrome, changing the microbiota can lead to weight gain, obesity, and obesity related disease such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, some Sweeteners can change the pH levels in the intestines which can slow down digestion.

Soda

Soda is filled with refined sugar and caffeine along with fructose. What makes soda worse is that it is also filled with artificial sweeteners. Drinking soda can increase the risk of a heart attack by twenty percent. Soda is filled with empty calories, and they can become additive meaning weight gain and that beery belly are more likely if you over consume them.

Because of the high amount of sugar your blood glucose levels with be yo-yoing and your appetite will be all over the place. You are better off sticking to water, you can add some citrus fruits and fresh herbs to boost the flavour. My favourite is a wedge of lime, a sprig of rosemary and a few sprigs of mint.

Takeaway’s

Most stakeout’s especially Chinese can have extremely prominent levels of sodium and sugar. Being high in calories, fat and salt a tasty take out can put you over on your daily limits. Which can lead to serious health problems especially if eaten on a regular basis. Too much salt in the diet can lead to heart disease.

Refined grains

Refined grains refers to a whole grain that has been polished and striped of almost all of its nutritional value including its fibre. Although many refined grains like white pasta and rice have some nutrients put back in. You are better off eating your whole grains. Refined grains also make your blood sugar (glucose) spike, consuming refined grains can lead to metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and obesity.

Alcohol.

As we age our ability to metabolise alcohol declines. This means that we cannot hold the same amount of alcohol we once did as the effects hit us quicker leading to risk such as falling. Also, alcohol can make other medical conditions such as hypertension worse.

Canned soup

Yes unbelievably canned soup should be avoided after the tender age of forty. This is because many tinned soups are extremely high in sodium, and our body after forty finds it much more difficult to excrete. And having too much sodium in your diet can increase the risk of high blood pressure.

Sports drinks

Do not pick up the bottles of sports drink as you head to the gym thinking there healthy as many people do, especially over the age of forty. This is because they are packed full of sugar which means lots of empty calories. All this added sugar can speed up the ageing process along with adding to your weight.

Sugar free snack

Unfortunately, the name misrepresents the healthy world as many people believe the world sugar free means healthy. Unfortunately, the missing sugar from these snacks are replaced with artificial sugars and fats. Although some naturally sugar free and no added sugar food can be healthy such as dried fruits you need to be careful what you’re eating.

Microwave meals

These again are high in sodium and can lack nutritional value. Sodium along with raising blood pressure can also make a person hold water. Water retention also known as oedema can make a person look puffy mainly in the face and ankles, legs, feet, and hands. This Occurs from a build up of water in the tissues. It can also make you feel bloated.

I’ve turned 40 this year, right now I’m in the best health I’ve ever been in. I don’t feel old I don’t feel tired. I’ve become more aware that time is worth more than any present. And I would much prefer to be taken out for a coffee and spend time with a love one than be given a gift.

I have come to realised I wished I didn’t use so much hair gel. Now ever strand of my hair is worth as much as saffron. I’ve become a custom to reaching out and asking for help. Emotionally I’m stronger and I don’t make any decisions based on feeling guilty.

The ten key things I would tell my younger self,

1, Travel more

2, Save more

3, Say no more

4, Hydrate more

5, Workout more

6, Don’t be afraid to ask for help

7, Except a no with grace

8, If you going to drink get it from the top shelf

9, You don’t know everything

10, Tell your love ones you love them everyday.

Means health care

Men’s health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and acknowledging its importance is fundamental to leading a fulfilling life. Despite societal norms that may discourage open discussions about men’s health, recognising its significance is crucial for early detection, prevention, and overall longevity.

Firstly, prioritising men’s health is essential because it directly impacts quality of life. Mental health, physical fitness, and emotional well-being are interconnected aspects that contribute to a man’s overall vitality. Ignoring health concerns or avoiding necessary screenings may lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of potential issues. Regular check-ups and adopting a proactive approach to health enable men to address concerns early on, often resulting in more effective interventions and improved outcomes.

Discussing health

Moreover, fostering a culture where men feel comfortable discussing their health promotes destigmatisation of self-care. Traditionally, societal expectations often pressure men to project strength and resilience while downplaying vulnerability. However, embracing self-care is not a sign of weakness but a testament to one’s commitment to personal health and a better quality of life.

Encouraging open conversations about mental health, seeking professional help when needed, and understanding the importance of rest and stress management are integral components of self-care for men.

being embarrassed

Men should not be embarrassed about self-care because it goes beyond physical health. Emotional well-being is equally vital, and acknowledging and addressing mental health concerns is a sign of strength. Breaking free from stereotypes that suggest seeking help is a sign of weakness empowers men to take charge of their mental health. Recognising the value of self-care not only benefits the individual but also contributes to creating a more compassionate and understanding society.

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep are foundational aspects of self-care that directly impact men’s health. These practices not only enhance physical fitness but also positively influence mental and emotional resilience. Embracing self-care as a holistic approach involves understanding individual needs, whether it’s allocating time for hobbies, practising mindfulness, or building a support network.

In conclusion, men’s health matters significantly, and the promotion of self-care is essential for a well-rounded, fulfilling life. By dispelling societal myths surrounding vulnerability, encouraging open conversations, and embracing self-care practices, men can break free from traditional expectations and actively participate in their journey toward optimal health. It’s time to celebrate and prioritise men’s health, fostering a culture where self-care is not only accepted but championed for its positive impact on overall well-being.

Generally really enjoyed writing this blog. Being forty is not old but it is definitely time that if you want to live another 40 years disease and illness free then it’s time to take care of what you got.

If you want to read about a super healthy food that i would recommand adding in to your diet then check out my blog on the health benefits of rockets.

For an external resource please check out this amazing website called Hearst Magazines. Its based on Mens health.

By Aaron Christopher Slade.

Men’s Health | Hearst Magazines