Introduction
As we age, our bodies change and our dietary needs change as well. Eating the wrong foods can have serious consequences for our health, especially after the age of 50. That’s why experts are warning us to never take certain foods after the age of 50. In this article, we’ll explore what foods to avoid and what foods to eat instead. We’ll also discuss why these foods are so dangerous and how to make healthier choices. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how to keep your body healthy and strong as you age.
Never Take This After Age 50, Warn Experts — Eat This Not That
As we age, our bodies change and so do our dietary needs. Experts warn that after age 50, there are certain foods and supplements that should be avoided. Here are some of the foods and supplements to avoid after age 50, as well as healthier alternatives.
Foods to Avoid After Age 50
- Processed meats: Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, are high in sodium and saturated fat, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Instead, opt for lean proteins such as fish, chicken, and beans.
- Refined grains: Refined grains, such as white bread and white rice, are stripped of their fiber and other nutrients. Instead, opt for whole grains such as oats, quinoa, and brown rice.
- Sugary drinks: Sugary drinks, such as soda and fruit juice, are high in calories and can lead to weight gain. Instead, opt for water or unsweetened tea.
Supplements to Avoid After Age 50
- Vitamin A: Vitamin A can be toxic in large doses and can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Instead, opt for foods rich in beta-carotene, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding and stroke. Instead, opt for foods rich in vitamin E, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, and spinach.
- Iron: Iron can be toxic in large doses and can increase the risk of heart disease. Instead, opt for foods rich in iron, such as lean red meat, beans, and spinach.
By avoiding these foods and supplements after age 50, you can help ensure that you stay healthy and fit. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly are the best ways to stay healthy as you age.
Age matters when it comes to taking certain medications and supplements. According to the U.S. Drug and Food Administration “As you get older, body changes can affect the way medicines are absorbed and used. For example, changes in the digestive system can affect how fast medicines enter the bloodstream. Changes in body weight can influence the amount of medicine you need to take and how long it stays in your body. The circulatory system may slow down, which can affect how fast drugs get to the liver and kidneys. The liver and kidneys also may work more slowly, affecting the way a drug breaks down and is removed from the body.” Knowing which medications and supplements to stay away from as we get older could make a big difference healthwise and experts reveal to us which ones to avoid and why. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Dr. Jeff Gladd, M.D., chief medical officer at Fullscript, and integrative medicine physician tells Eat This, Not That! Health, “Iron is a mineral found in many multivitamins formulated for women of reproductive age; however, iron supplementation is generally not necessary for postmenopausal women and women over 50. Once a woman enters her 50s and no longer menstruates, her iron requirements decline by nearly 45%. While iron plays an essential role in the formation of red blood cells, consuming excess iron can affect zinc absorption and contribute to unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
All of that being said, I find it necessary to test all patients’ levels of total body iron to assess optimal status. While the likelihood of deficiency is lower in men as well as women over 50 years old, the intake from the diet and health of the digestive tract for absorption may still be playing a role in deficiency.”
Dr. Gladd explains, “High blood pressure (hypertension) affects nearly half of adults, and the risk of developing high blood pressure increases with age. Adults with high blood pressure should avoid taking licorice root, a popular herbal supplement often used to support adrenal gland function.
Research shows that licorice root can elevate blood pressure and interact with blood pressure medications. Licorice root can also reduce potassium levels, an important mineral that helps regulate blood pressure.
Licorice is also used for digestive health, as it provides support for mild irritation of the digestive lining. This should always be in the deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) form. Removing glycyrrhizin ensures that the blood pressure-impacting part of the root is removed and is often safe to be taken by most. It is best to work with an integrative medicine provider who can make personal recommendations and help guide the risks and benefits of therapies as well as monitor their impact on one’s health.”
Dr. David Culpepper, MD and Clinical DIrector of LifeMD shares, “After 50, I would exercise caution when taking B-complex vitamins. Vitamin B3 (niacin) and Vitamin B9 (folate) in particular can build up and put a strain on your liver when it tries to flush the excess out of your bloodstream. As many people are concerned primarily about getting enough B12 because of its benefits to the brain and blood cells, I would suggest taking a B12 alone and skipping the B-complex.”
Dr. Culpepper says, “As far as medications, I would caution those over 50 against using the decongestant pseudoephedrine. This over the counter medication is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows the blood vessels. This can cause an increase in blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those over 50, especially anyone at risk for heart disease.”
Dr. Culpepper explains, “I would offer similar cautions against many herbal stimulants for those over 50. Many of these also cause vasoconstriction and the associated hypertension (high blood pressure). There are many herbal supplements in this category, but some of the common ones are ginkgo biloba, ginseng, Siberian ginseng, guarana, and gotu kola. Many of these are found in energy drinks and other products marketed for an energy boost. Always read the ingredients on such products, and keep in mind that a product touted for its energy boosting properties is likely to cause a boost in your blood pressure as well.”
Karin Ashley, an Integrative Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner explains, “Folic acid is a synthetic version of folate, also known as vitamin B9. Folic acid, along with other vitamins, is added to a number of foods to fortify them. Supplementing folic acid in addition to the fortified foods can cause an imbalance in metabolism, leading to vitamin B12 deficiency. Older adults are more prone to vitamin B12 deficiency to begin with due to the natural decrease in stomach acid, which is needed to absorb nutrients from food. Risk of over-supplementation can be decreased by eating less foods (mainly breads and cereals) that have ‘enriched flour’ in the ingredient list.”
Ashley emphasizes, “It’s really important for consumers, especially older adults, to read labels on nutritional supplements. … It is true that older adults may need to supplement protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals, but they should be selective about the source. Many supplement shakes have added artificial sweeteners like acesulfame K and aspartame, which have been associated with an increased risk of stroke and dementia, two things that older adults are at higher risk for. These sweeteners are also added to beverages and foods labeled ‘diet’ and ‘low sugar,’ so check those labels!” And to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.
Heather Newgen