If You're In Your 40s Or About To Be, Experts Say You Should Start Eating These Foods ASAP

Aging experts emphasize that eating patterns in middle adulthood can influence health and vitality later in life. A modeling study found that 40-year-olds who switch from a typical Western diet to an optimal diet with more legumes, nuts, and whole grains and less red and processed meat could gain substantial life expectancy. Plant-based foods are presented as key, including nuts and seeds for their healthy fats, fiber, phenolics, and other bioactive compounds. Adequate protein is also highlighted for maintaining and building muscle, especially because many people, particularly women, may not consume enough. Overall, the guidance focuses on improving diet quality to support energy now and healthier aging in the future.

"The study concluded that 40-year-olds switching from a typical Western diet to an optimal diet, with increased legumes, nuts and whole grains, along with less red meat and processed meat, could increase life expectancy by approximately 10 years for women and 11.7 years for men."

"He says, as long as you're not allergic to them, nuts and seeds are an incredibly healthful choice. "They're remarkable life-giving packages of healthy fats, fibers, phenolics and other bioactives," he said. "Gram for gram, nuts are one of the most potent foods out there, and they're currently widely underconsumed by Americans.""

""I've learned that protein is important for building muscle, and many of us, particularly women, don't get enough," said Dr. Lucinda A. Harris, a professo"

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