The older you get, the more things change. As the years go by, you’ll start to notice that you can’t do things quite the same way you did when you were younger. Partying, staying up late, even exercising is different in middle age compared to your teens, early 20s and even your 30s. Of course the foods you eat also impact your body differently in middle age so it’s important to know now what specific foods you should favor for the long run.

The whole deal with eating different foods when you reach middle age is due to the fact that your body becomes more vulnerable to illness and disease with each passing year. The great thing is that certain foods have been shown to naturally provide benefits to the body, even the aging ones. Once you know the secret to eating smart during middle age, you’ll feel healthier, stronger and more in control. So what’s the first food on the list? Black beans. Did you know that consuming three cups of black beans a week during your middle age years can reduce your risk of colon cancer and heart disease? Additionally, the power of black beans allows for lower blood pressure. Diet-wise, black beans also aid in boosting your metabolism, so it’s efficient in weight loss.

Garlic is next on the list of smart foods for middle age. Medical studies show that including garlic into your daily meals can reduce the chances of developing cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, inflammation, and Alzheimer’s disease. If you’re worried about osteoporosis, then start eating more edamame. Packed with protein and fiber, one cup of edamame can increase hipbone density over a period of time, making for stronger bones. You may not have been a fan of yellow squash as a kid but as an adult, this food can make a large difference in your middle age years. Chock full of nutrients and rich in vitamin A, yellow squash is great for enhancing immune function, reducing the risk for developing skin cancer and lung cancer, and is also filled with lutein, which can prevent vision loss as you get older.

Almonds aren’t just a fun snack food, they’re good for you, too! As you reach middle age, start reaching for more almonds because they’re good for your heart. Eating unsalted almonds provides more vitamin E and drops the bad cholesterol while raising the good cholesterol. For middle aged men and women seeking foods to aid in weight loss, whole grains are key. Consuming plenty of whole grains daily can lower your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, and heart disease. Whole grains are also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, all which work to keep free radical damage away and prevent the signs of premature aging.

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