What Happens To The Human Body Once The Clock Strikes 40?
Age is not just a number…but a physiological experience.
Entering your 40s brings with it a series of amendments in the body. Form and function shifts.
You experience unmistakable changes that whisper, “Hey, you’re not 20 anymore buddy!”
They suggest that age is not just a number…but a physiological experience.
Let’s look at the physiological shifts that tend to occur once you turn 40 and some proactive health measures that’ll be perfect for this stage of life.
#1 Metabolism Slows Down
One of the most noticeable changes is the gradual slowing of metabolism.
If you used to eat a huge lunch and by mid-afternoon, you burn it all up, all without lifting a single finger, 40 is a little different.
The body tends to burn fewer calories at rest.
At this stage of life, we find that most people are sitting and staring at their computers. Hard at work mentally, but sedentary physically.
Counteract this by finding the time to remain active. Take the time to walk after work. Take the stairs down instead of the elevator. Park your car at some distance so you get your steps in.
#2 Muscle Mass Declines
You used to have well-defined, toned muscles. And you haven’t even stepped inside a gym once!
By 40, you’ll notice that your muscles, while still there, are a little softer. They might have been sleeping under a layer of fat for years and have barely been exerted.
To counteract this, engage in a well-rounded fitness regimen that includes strength training at least twice a week. Stay active with activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling to preserve overall muscle function.
And prioritize protein-rich foods such as lean meats, dairy, legumes, and nuts to provide essential amino acids for muscle maintenance.
#3 Bone Density Decreases
You used to do flips and tricks with your skateboard all afternoon, fall over a dozen times, and walk it off like some invincible ninja.
At 40, your bones are the ones playing tricks on you.
As we age, bone density diminishes, which can mean a higher susceptibility to fractures and bone-related booboos. That’s why you don’t see as many 40-year-old men on skates as there are 16-year-old boys.
So at 40, ensure an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D through foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified products.
Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, or dancing stimulate bone density.
And you might not think it, but smoking and alcohol can negatively impact bone health. So maybe give these two a rest.
#4 Hormonal Changes
For women, menopause typically occurs around this decade, bringing about a decline in estrogen levels. Men may experience a gradual decline in testosterone as well.
Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to various symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in libido.
For women, incorporate phytoestrogen-rich foods like soy and flaxseeds. Men can support testosterone levels with a balanced diet including zinc-rich foods like oysters and pumpkin seeds.
Seeking medical advice and adopting healthy lifestyle practices can help manage these transitions.
#5 Cardiovascular Changes
At a young age, one’s pipes, or blood vessels are in tip-top shape. They can easily handle the different fluids and materials that pass through them.
At 40, blood vessel elasticity diminishes, and cholesterol contributes to the formation of plaques that narrow and eventually block blood vessels. A block at an unfortunate spot, like the heart or the brain, can have grave consequences.
It used to be that strokes and heart attacks came later in life. But because of unhealthy lifestyles, they are now regularly occurring at earlier phases in the lifespan.
Avoid this by engaging in aerobic exercises such as jogging, cycling, or swimming.
Also, adopt a heart-healthy diet with an emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Regularly monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
#6 Vision Changes
At a young age, you can read even the fonts that only ants should be able to read.
At 40, you know already where the “Zoom” is on your phone or laptop.
The lenses of the eyes become less flexible, impacting focus on close objects and increasing the risk of conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Sometimes vision changes so much that your hands are not long enough to adjust the material to a readable distance.
Caring for your eyes is essential for maintaining good vision and overall eye health. Ensure you always have adequate lighting and maintain proper ergonomic conditions to reduce eye strain and discomfort.
Shield your eyes from potential hazards and harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Most of all, eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as leafy greens (rich in lutein and zeaxanthin), fish (high in omega-3 fatty acids), and colorful fruits and vegetables. Stay hydrated to support overall eye function.
#7 Cognitive Changes
The thing is, if we are cognitively active, our brain functions can even improve over time.
But if we continue to fail to regularly exercise or challenge our brains, our mental aptitude will waste away and we will more susceptible to the cognitive declines of aging.
So we should stimulate the brain with activities such as puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill.
Research has also found that maintaining social connections is good for cognitive health.
One’s diet also has an impact, which is why we should adopt a diet rich in antioxidants, including blueberries, dark chocolate, and green tea.
#8 Mobility Issues
You wanted to travel the world when you were young.
At 40, you don’t even want to get a glass of water because then you’d have to walk to the fridge.
Wear and tear on joints may lead to conditions like arthritis, impacting mobility. They used to happen to older individuals, but they are increasingly found in people as young as 40.
Weak joints don’t mean you don't move. You should instead gradually strengthen and build them back up.
Choose low-impact exercises such as swimming, yoga, or cycling to preserve joint health. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints.
And in addition to a well-balanced diet, consider joint-friendly supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Turning 40 is not a signal of decline. No, no no. But it tells us to change something in our lifestyles.
Embrace a lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and preventive healthcare measures, and you will have an amazing next 40 years of your life.
