As we cross the 50-year mark, reaching and maintaining a healthy weight can become a more uphill battle.
This is partly due to changes in metabolism, which tend to slow the rate at which you burn calories.
Recognizing the challenges faced at this stage of life, researchers at Harvard University have identified foods that can contribute to weight gain after age 50.
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Examining data from 136,432 adults, mostly women over 28, researchers highlighted the influence of carbohydrate quality on weight management in this age group.
It found that those who consumed a higher proportion of low-quality carbohydrates experienced significant weight gain, up to 1.4 kilograms more compared to their peers.
This effect was particularly pronounced among women and individuals who were already overweight.
What foods make you fat after age 50?
Experts have identified three food groups that stand out as contributors to this worrying pattern.
Firstly, starchy vegetables stand out, such as peas, corn, potatoes and pumpkinwhich, despite their healthy reputation, can trigger blood glucose spikes when consumed in excess.
Secondly, sugary drinks, including sodas, fruit juices and energy drinks, have been linked to greater weight gain due to their high added sugar content.
Finally, refined cereals, such as white pasta, French bread, white rice and white flour, were identified as the main villains.
These foods, with a high glycemic index, can lead to sudden fluctuations in blood glucose levels, thus contributing to the accumulation of unwanted pounds.
In addition to diet, researchers highlight the importance of adequate sleep in maintaining a healthy weight and promoting overall well-being.
A good night’s sleep not only facilitates body regeneration and memory consolidation, but also plays a fundamental role in regulating metabolism and modulating the immune system.
On the other hand, insufficient or poor-quality sleep is associated with a range of health problems, including obesity and cognitive disorders.
In short, these findings highlight the importance of making conscious food choices and prioritizing healthy lifestyle habits, especially after age 50, to maintain a healthy weight and promote active, vibrant aging.
*With information from Metropolises.
