It’s no question that as we get older, our health starts to decline. By age 40, most adults will notice significant differences in their body’s work. Establishing healthy habits before reaching four decades is one of the best ways to slow or prevent these aging symptoms and live your best life at 40.
Before turning 40, most people should have an established preventative care routine, which includes regular doctor’s visits, yearly lab work, and cancer screenings — especially for breast cancer or testicular cancer. After 40, these preventative measures should have a much higher priority as risks for developing cancer, heart disease, or diabetes increase with age.
Getting the right amount of sleep in your 20s and 30s is another way to ensure better health in your 40s. Most people need seven to nine hours of sleep a night, though that often varies throughout the seasons, with the body naturally requiring more rest in winter months. Doctors recommend putting all electronics away two hours before bed and sleeping with them plugged in and far away from your pillow for a restful and relaxing night.
Diet and exercise become even more critical for maintaining overall health after 40. A daily walk, a ten-minute yoga routine, or even prioritizing standing with a standing desk can make a big difference in overall health. Weight-training and moving muscles that you otherwise wouldn’t use on a daily basis is another great way to avoid the aches and pains of early arthritis, which can begin at 40.
Eating enough fruits and vegetables helps boost your metabolism well into your 40s, and consuming organic, local, and home-cooked foods is also a great way to maintain a healthy weight and immune system. Being mindful of how much sugar, fats, and carbohydrates you consume is also a good way to prevent conditions such as diabetes and heart disease that can take effect by age 40.
Staying hydrated is another easy tip for staying healthy well into your 40s. Our bodies are mostly made up of fluids, which we excrete daily, especially for those experiencing physical changes due to menopause. Consuming at least 11 cups of water daily is a good way to flush out harmful gut bacteria, prevent dehydration, and keep the brain and muscles active and sharp.
Health starts to decline rapidly for most adults when they reach 40. Healthy habits such as diet, exercise, hydration, and annual doctor’s visits before reaching four decades are a great way to ensure health and longevity. It’s never too late to establish good habits – even people over 40 can experience tremendous health benefits by following these easy tips.
