Once women reach a certain age, especially when that age is over 40, they can start to experience several different symptoms that come with menopause or aging in general. Unfortunately, it can also be a little harder to lose weight.
There are several factors that can impact a woman’s ability to lose a sufficient amount of weight as they ages, and as annoying as it is, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. However, it is super crucial that they pay close attention to their diets, as there are so many nutritious, wholesome foods that can make losing weight easier, and a whole lot of cruddy foods that make it more complicated. We spoke with certified health coach and weight loss expert, Malia Frey, M.A., ACE-CPT, CHC, and board-certified physician, Dr. Rasoul Montazeri, about four processed foods women over 40 should avoid in order to shed some excess pounds and keep them off successfully. Read more about them below.
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1. Sweetened Coffee Creamers
Many of us can't get through the day without a cup of coffee in the morning, and there are a ton of people who need to add some sort of flavored creamer to it in order to drink it. It's understandable, as black coffee is not everyone's taste, but if you're adding creamer to it, you'll want to pay extra close attention to the label and what's in it, as they can be packed with sugar.
"Many of these products are packed with sugar and fattening oils and are high in calories," warns Frey. "They are also very easy to overconsume - a single serving is just one tablespoon, but who actually gets a tablespoon out when they add cream to coffee?"
2. Packaged Pastries & Cookies
You know when you're in the grocery store and you pass by the bakery section, how tempting it can be to buy a box of croissants, cookies, cupcakes, and more? Because of the way they're packaged and marketed, seemingly looking fresh, you may think they're not that bad for you. However, think again.
Dr. Montazeri says these pre-packaged bakery items are often "high in refined flour and trans fats, which promote abdominal fat storage." Therefore, if you're trying to lose weight and keep them in your diet, you're setting yourself up for failure. Every once in a while is fine, but eating them frequently is sabotage.
3. Processed Meats
For some people, processed meats are a big part of their lives. For instance, maybe they eat a sandwich with a processed deli meat several times a week for lunch, or dabble in a pepperoni pizza or hot dogs a few times a month. If those are some of your daily habits, and you're a woman over 40 struggling to lose weight, you'll want to cut back on them.
"These heavily processed meats are not only linked to an increased risk of cancer, but they are also high in saturated fat and calories," says Frey. "There are many better sources of protein, such as sliced turkey or other 'meat off the bone.' I like to cook a turkey breast or chicken and use the breast meat for sandwiches, then use the remaining meat for soups and casseroles."
4. Frozen Diet Meals
Every once in a while, having a frozen meal for lunch or dinner feels like a savior, especially during a super busy day. However, some people eat them routinely for one reason or another. While there are plenty of brands that market themselves as healthy and low-calorie, it turns out, there are still likely some ingredients and macros going on that aren't very good for you.
"While these foods are portion-controlled and low in calories, they are also often full of sodium, added sugars, and other unhealthy ingredients," explains Frey.
"They can also increase your dependence on processed food, which can lead to obesity and other health issues," she continues. "Instead, learn to prep macro-balanced meals at home with healthy ingredients (whole grains, lean meats, and veggies). By choosing your own ingredients and cooking for yourself, you enjoy more food, increased nutrition, and fewer calories."
