The Best Diet Plan for Women Over 40: 10 Simple Ways to Start Today (2 of 6)

Add More Protein

Once you reach 50, you’ll need to dramatically increase your protein intake anyway, so you might as well get started in your 40s. Lean protein contributes to weight loss since it helps your body burn calories. Chicken breast, seafood, lean pork, tofu, eggs, and legumes such as black beans and lentils all belong on the best diet plan for women over 40. Lean red meats such as sirloin, which contain iron and zinc, are perfectly acceptable when consumed in moderation.

Calcium Is Your Friend

As you reach middle age, bone health becomes increasingly important. To avoid potential medical complications caused by a calcium deficiency (such as osteoporosis), aim for 2 to 3 servings a day of calcium-rich foods. Greek yogurt, 1% milk, low-fat cottage cheese, and feta cheese crumbles are good choices, and as a bonus they all contain the daily recommended value of vitamin D.