You are what you eat and after 40, that old saying carries a lot more weight than it used to. Your metabolism slows down, recovery takes longer, and your body becomes far less forgiving of the processed, sugary, and salty foods you might have gotten away with in your 20s. Some everyday favorites can quietly raise your blood pressure, spike your blood sugar, and pack on stubborn weight around the middle. Here are 10 popular foods worth cutting back on once you hit your 40s and what to reach for instead.
1. Processed Deli Meats
That stack of bacon or ham on your sandwich is doing more damage than it looks. Processed meats are loaded with sodium and preservatives called nitrates, which several large studies have linked to higher blood pressure and an increased risk of colorectal cancer with regular consumption. The preservation process can also trigger low-grade inflammation in the body something you want less of, not more, as you age. Save deli meats for the occasional treat rather than a daily lunch staple, and reach for freshly roasted chicken or turkey instead. Your arteries and your colon will both benefit.
