It's no secret that a woman's health and appearance depend on proper and healthy nutrition. And if in their youth many beauties can sometimes indulge themselves with fast food and Coca-Cola without worrying about the consequences, then in older age they should carefully select their daily diet.
With age, every woman faces such an unpleasant phenomenon as menopause or menopause. During this period, the body reduces the synthesis of the main female sex hormone - estrogen, which leads to the cessation of reproductive function. Most representatives of the fair sex expect menopause as if it were a catastrophe, however, it is quite possible to reduce unpleasant symptoms and prolong the youth of the body if you reconsider your habits and lifestyle, and also follow a non-strict diet.
Menopause and its features
Each woman experiences menopause differently, but the general symptoms are the same. First, the production of female hormones by the ovaries decreases, menstruation is disrupted, the possibility of becoming pregnant decreases, and finally disappears. Most often, the first symptoms of menopause are observed around 50 years of age, but there are cases when menopause occurs at 40 years of age or even earlier. The reason for this may be genetic predisposition, chronic diseases, poor diet and bad habits.
Not every body tolerates menopause without pronounced symptoms. About 70% of women experience sudden hot flashes, profuse sweating, swelling, nausea and insomnia. In more rare cases, menopause causes serious disorders of the nervous, endocrine and cardiovascular systems.
Menopause in women is usually divided into three stages: premenopause, menopause and postmenopause. The first stage lasts on average 2-5 years and covers the period from the beginning of the decline of ovarian function until the onset of menopause itself. During the next period, there is a gradual cessation of menstrual flow. The third period - postmenopause - is the time after the cessation of menstruation.
Proper nutrition for women
December 3, 2010
How do women change over the years, and what should they do to remain beautiful and healthy until older age?
Women are not similar to men not only in appearance - the difference in metabolism between the sexes is also quite noticeable. How does metabolism change in women over the years, and what should be done to remain beautiful and healthy until older age?
Features of female metabolism
No matter what the classics write about huts and horses, women for the most part are weaker, lower and lighter than men.
That is why, according to various studies, women's metabolism is 10-20 percent slower than men's. After all, the more muscles are involved in work, the more energy is spent, and women have much less muscle mass than the stronger sex. Prevention of osteoporosis
How much calcium is needed, how it is absorbed, and how dancing improves bone health is described in a special material.
In addition, modern women rarely lift weights or move actively, except at their own request in a fitness club. And with age, women’s metabolism begins to slow down quite quickly. It is believed that every year after 30 years, energy consumption in the female body decreases by 3 percent. At this time, a woman’s metabolic rate is maximum - little fat, maximum muscle mass. But this does not mean that you can eat everything and move little. After all, in just a few years, with such a “gentle” regime, the muscles will become less active, begin to consume less energy, which means its excess will go towards increasing fat deposits. The ABCs of healthy eating
20 simple statements about how to eat properly will help you build a balanced diet for beauty and health. In addition, women most often have their first baby before the age of 30, which means that a woman needs to eat in such a way that her body is as prepared as possible for conceiving and bearing a child. For those who are going to become a mother, excess weight poses a great danger. Excess fat deposits can cause premature birth and various diseases of the baby. Ideal menu for 20-30 year olds
? A maximum of vegetables and fruits, especially green and orange, lean meat and fish, dairy and whole grain products. But you need to gradually wean yourself off foods that contain refined sugar, excess fat and refined grains. Sweet soda, white buns, fatty cakes and fast food are best left in the teenage past.
Physical activity just for you
Seven ways to increase your physical activity: seven different challenges and their solutions. At this age, a woman often already has a family, a successful career, and children growing up. That is, there is less and less time for oneself, work becomes more sedentary, and food becomes less healthy. But it is in the fourth decade of life that the active accumulation of fat deposits begins, and the first signs of bone loss appear - harbingers of osteoporosis. Therefore, you will have to make time for physical exercise, which will help fight excess weight and prevent osteoporosis. Half an hour of moderate intensity exercise per day is quite enough. What's better to eat
?
Whole grains, vegetables, fruits. Place special emphasis on low-fat dairy products - they are the best for the body to absorb calcium, which strengthens bones. Try to reduce the amount of animal fat in your diet: give up sausages, canned food and fatty cheeses and cream. In this decade, a woman experiences her first hormonal changes. The thyroid gland reduces the production of the hormone thyroxine, which speeds up metabolism. And a decrease in the level of the female hormone estrogen further activates the loss of calcium from the bones. In addition, skin and hair require additional care - and special nutrition. After forty years, you need to move no less than in your youth - and even more. But choose low intensity and long duration loads to control body weight and fight osteoporosis. What is there at this age
? The condition of your skin and hair will improve significantly if your diet contains enough vegetables, fruits and vegetable oils rich in natural antioxidants. Fish, lean meat and dairy products will help strengthen bones, maintain normal muscle mass and provide building material for thyroid hormones. It is better to completely exclude fatty foods and carbohydrates with a high glycemic index from the diet.
Proper nutrition for men
Is there special food for men? Is it a myth or reality? We answer all questions. In women's fifties, menopause usually begins. The body develops a serious lack of the hormone estrogen, which leads to osteoporosis and a sharp increase in body weight in women due to fat deposition. In addition, the joints become less mobile. Long-term low-intensity exercise will allow you to maintain decent physical shape and protect your joints from destruction. What should you eat
?
Dairy and whole grain products, vegetables and fruits will be a good source of vitamins and nutrients necessary for the normal functioning of the body. Increase the proportion of foods rich in natural antioxidants and Omega fatty acids - they will protect body cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. After sixty years, in addition to problems with the musculoskeletal system and excess weight, diseases of the cardiovascular system, caused by the deposition of cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels, are added. In addition, the first disturbances in the functioning of the brain appear - decreased attention and memory deterioration. Changes in the functioning of the vestibular apparatus and decreased vision appear. Walking and not very intense, but regular exercise will improve the functioning of the brain and vestibular system and reduce the risk of injury. What's better to eat
? In order to lower the level of bad cholesterol in the blood, try to reduce the consumption of animal fats and increase the proportion of plant fats. Low-fat dairy products, fish, fruits, vegetables and berries will protect the cardiovascular system and support the nervous system.
The most important
Over the years, women's metabolism slows down, and the risk of excess weight and osteoporosis increases due to changes in hormonal levels.
Therefore, physical activity cannot be reduced with age. In addition, it is necessary to change your diet towards reducing fat content and increasing the amount of dairy products, fruits and vegetables. Tags:
- Women
- Older age
- Metabolism
- Diet
- Osteoporosis
3 comments • To leave a comment you must be an authorized user
- Momotta Thank you. After 40 years, I started taking Lady’s formula Woman 40. A good complex, contains natural pineapple enzyme, which helps reduce weight. After the onset of menopause, I drink Lady's Formula Menopause Strengthened Formula, it contains a complex of herbs, in particular chasteberry extract - the phytoestrogens in its composition normalize hormones. The components increase collagen production and help maintain normal skin. Of course I reviewed my diet, no processed foods or sweets.
- Zabolotnaya Did you think that at some age they would recommend cookies and cola? Proper nutrition - an elementary set, a construction set with the main parts; The article simply explains why certain foods should never be forgotten at different ages.
- Katafei Same advice for all ages! vegetables, fruits, dairy products. and so that there is no fat - what kind of cotton wool??
Signs of menopausal syndrome
The first and main symptom of menopause is a decrease in the production of female hormones. A woman can replace the decrease in hormone levels due to disruptions in the menstrual cycle. There are long delays in menstruation, and the discharge itself can become either abundant or scanty. At this time, uterine bleeding may also occur, which can sometimes lead to anemia, which should be taken into account when choosing a diet.
Among the most common symptoms of menopause are:
- Insomnia.
- Depression.
- Feeling of fear.
- General anxiety.
- Headache.
- "Floaters" before the eyes.
- Hypertension.
- Sudden weight changes.
- Chills.
- Fast fatiguability.
It is worth noting that all of the above signs may not only indicate the onset of menopause, but also be symptoms of other diseases. That is why, if all the above symptoms appear, it is necessary to undergo an examination prescribed by a doctor, who will select the right diet and, if necessary, prescribe treatment.
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What diets are suitable for losing weight at this age?
When choosing a diet, you need to ensure that it is enriched with all the necessary components. After 55 years, bones become quite fragile, immunity decreases , and skin condition worsens.
Therefore, lack of nutrients can have an extremely negative impact on health. Hungry rigid weight loss systems are best avoided.
Many proprietary weight loss techniques are adapted for older women and are balanced.
Here are some diets suitable for women over 55:
- System of Margarita Koroleva. Nutritionist Margarita Koroleva has developed a special diet suitable for women over 55 years old. It has two options - for 7 and 9 days.
You need to eat small portions and often, drink plenty of fluids. You can also eat sweets, but in limited quantities and in the first half of the day. You can’t eat after 6 p.m.—only a glass of kefir is allowed.
It is important to monitor the caloric content of food. Sugar should be excluded. It is better to replace salt with seasonings, spices, and soy sauce. It is not necessary to completely give up bread, but it is better to choose grain or bran.
- System of Elena Malysheva. A universal technique that is designed for smooth, safe weight loss, so it lasts 2 months. You need to eat 4-5 times a day, the caloric content of the diet should be 1200-1300 kcal.
The diet contains a lot of meat, but few simple carbohydrates. Malysheva advises giving up salt. There is no hard menu, there are options recommended by the author from which you can choose.It is possible to order ready-made food that meets all the rules.
- Water diet. Does not involve strong restrictions, lasts several months. The main principle is to drink water, and before meals: this way you will eat less and maintain your metabolism at a normal level.
It is recommended to avoid baking, sweets, salty and fried foods, and to minimize the amount of coffee you drink.
- Buckwheat diet. Mono-diets are not very suitable for women over 55, since they are not balanced, but you can choose their gentle analogues.
For example, a version of the buckwheat diet menu, which, in addition to buckwheat, allows other products. You can stick to the system for no more than a month. In addition to buckwheat, fermented milk products, vegetables, fruits, eggs, lean meat and fish are allowed. Every day you can choose three products from the presented list, consuming them in quantities of no more than 200 grams. You need to eat five times a day. Buckwheat is prepared by steaming overnight. - Protein diet. Standard protein methods are also not indicated for older women, so it is worth choosing their balanced options. The correct BJU ratio is 30:30:40.
The best sources of proteins are meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Portions should be no more than 250-300 g, the lower calorie limit is 1200 kcal.You can create a menu yourself, the main thing is to eat the right foods and stick to the norms.
Diet for 7 days
In order to quickly lose weight, a diet for women over 55 years old was developed with a 7-day weight loss menu. It should be followed with caution, after consulting with your doctor. Because such stress can harm the body. The principle of the diet is as follows:
- be sure to have breakfast. You can choose to cook oatmeal, boil a couple of eggs, or make a salad of boiled vegetables. A couple of toasts with low-fat cheese, boiled fish with vegetables, and low-fat cottage cheese are suitable. You can drink a cup of green tea or herbal infusion;
- a snack between meals can consist of yogurt, green tea with diet cookies, fruit;
- For lunch, it is advisable to eat vegetable or fish soup. As a second course, nutritionists recommend boiled fish or lean meat, steamed cutlets, baked vegetables, buckwheat porridge or salads of fresh vegetables and herbs;
- dinner should include boiled vegetables, steamed fish, cottage cheese or steamed omelet.
After following the rules of the diet, how to lose weight after 55 years for a woman, the reviews are positive. However, you should eat only approved foods. Portion sizes are limited. Overeating is unacceptable. Don't forget about your drinking regime. 1.5 liters of still water is the daily norm.
Rules for losing weight for women after 55 years
When a decision is made on how to lose weight after 55 years for a woman, advice from a nutritionist is welcome. In addition, the main rule is to be careful and gradual. The optimal weight loss course is 90 days. This ensures a gentle acceleration of metabolism, eliminates the occurrence of physical inactivity, and normalizes hormonal balance.
The next necessary condition is the organization of proper nutrition. It is permissible to eat only healthy foods. Since metabolic processes slow down, harmful foods instantly turn into fat deposits. You should avoid fried foods. Food should be boiled, baked or steamed.
Portions should be small, which will gradually reduce the volume of the stomach. Regular consumption of clean, still water should become a habit. The amount of salt and sugar is limited to a minimum. But vegetables and fruits should be present in the diet every day.
Don’t forget about additional help for the body in the form of taking vitamins. In this case, you should consult a doctor who will select the most appropriate and effective complex. The most commonly recommended vitamins are D, F, and folic acid.
An equally important factor in maintaining slimness and fitness is moderate physical activity. Experts recommend swimming, attending yoga classes, and taking regular walks in the fresh air. Every morning you can do simple exercises, including bending, squats, and abdominal exercises. This has a beneficial effect on the normalization of hormonal levels and the nervous system.
When asking how to lose weight after 55 years, a woman should exercise caution and moderation. Tormenting the body with fasting or excessive physical activity is unacceptable. This may harm the body. The transition to a new rhythm of life should proceed intelligently, without creating additional stress.
Features of the female body after 55 years
Upon reaching the age of 55, a woman’s body undergoes significant changes. Hormonal levels change and some processes slow down. This is reflected in the appearance. Skin tone noticeably decreases, hair loses its former attractiveness and strength, and the body becomes less toned.
That is why the usual diet, which previously saved from excess weight, ceases to work. Unwanted kilograms appear that you want to get rid of. This process may be temporary until the body gets used to the new state. However, most often a woman has to revise her menu and daily routine in order to stay in great shape.
The process of how to properly lose weight after 55 years for a woman is quite complicated. This is explained by hormonal imbalance. A woman must prepare herself to overcome difficulties. Then you should see a doctor, get tested, and undergo the necessary examination. Only after determining the general condition of the body at a specific stage of life’s journey can you create a weight loss system and choose the right diet.
How to eat healthy: basic principles
The best diet for a 55-year-old woman is to eat healthy every day.
It should be based on the following rules:
- Try to eat more fresh foods, as they retain maximum beneficial properties.
- You need to eat fractionally - 5-6 times a day in small portions.
- Be sure to have breakfast. Breakfast should include complex carbohydrates that will fill you with energy for a long time. It is recommended to have dinner no later than 2-3 hours before bedtime.
- It is recommended to avoid frying. It is recommended to steam, boil, stew, and bake food.
- It is recommended to minimize simple carbohydrates. These include sweets, baked goods, white bread, and foods containing starch.
- There should be fats in the diet, but only vegetable ones; they are consumed in limited quantities. These include vegetable oils, nuts, and avocados.
It is also recommended to limit alcoholic drinks. You can drink a glass of red wine a couple of times a week.
- Supplement the diet with physical activity - it will help you stay active for as long as possible and will also contribute to weight loss.
- It is important to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. These are the best sources of vitamins and minerals. It is recommended to eat them every day.
- It is necessary to consume enough protein products: low-fat meat and fish, eggs, dairy products, hard cheese. They also contain calcium, which is good for bones in old age.
- Experts advise limiting salt intake, as it promotes fluid retention. You can use various seasonings that will diversify the menu and speed up metabolism. Ginger, basil, cardamom, pepper, turmeric, coriander are useful.
- Drink enough fluids - at least two liters of clean water per day.
The main age-related problems faced by women aged 50 and older
Rapid aging is primarily caused by hormonal imbalance (also called menopause), as a result of which the production of female sex hormones is significantly reduced. Disruption of internal metabolism in the body (metabolic process) in turn significantly impairs blood circulation. These processes deteriorate not only the appearance of the skin, but also its health in general. This happens due to a rapid decrease in the amount of vitamins and beneficial microelements entering the skin cells. Skin elasticity, something all women strive for, is ensured by the production of elastin and collagen. After 50 years, the production of these elements decreases significantly - which leads to the appearance of loose skin.
The main problems of facial skin at 50 years old:
- Pigment spots are the result of a slowdown in metabolic processes. Liver disease, gastrointestinal tract, excessive ultraviolet radiation, hormonal disorders, disruptions in the functioning of the nervous system, vitamin deficiency - all these problems increase the number and size of pigment spots on the face and other parts of the body with age.
- Drooping (drooping) eyelids are folds that form from excess skin in certain places (in this case, in the eye area). The main reasons for the appearance of this defect are excessive overstrain of the temporal muscles, systematic lack of sleep, and impaired blood circulation (as a result of which excess fluid stagnates in the head area, which subsequently collects in the eyelid area).
- Peeling and dry skin of the face - even with an active and healthy lifestyle, this problem will overtake you as you age. This happens due to a lack of natural collagen production - the skin becomes thinner and easily deformed. Dryness is caused by an imbalance in the water balance in the body and the functioning of the sebaceous glands.
- Pronounced nasolabial folds are a kind of indicator of a woman’s age (as a rule, their size directly depends on age). Folds appear when two grooves descend below the level of the wings of the nose towards the lips, hence the name.
- Thinning lips - appear as a result of erasing the contour of the lips (becoming less voluminous and clear). The main reasons for thin lips: a decrease in the level of female sex hormones, the face as a whole goes down with age, the facial muscles are tense for a long time, the lips decrease in size, and when the front teeth fall out, the entire nasolabial frame shifts.
- Age-related changes in the oval of the face - the main cause of which is wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity.