Nutritionists Say You Should Be Breaking These 4 Habits To Boost Your Metabolism Over 40

Why can your metabolism’s functionality wane as you age?

“Losing muscle, which is common as you age, can affect [your metabolism]. [Muscle mass] helps keep your metabolism revved up,” says Lisa Young, PhD, a nutritionist in private practice. She adds, “Limiting exercise can also slow down your metabolism as can yo-yo diets and severe calorie restriction.”

It may be tempting to try intense diets that promise quick results, but this is counterintuitive if your goal is lasting weight loss. Young shared with us her favorite tips for maintaining a diet that will keep your metabolism strong.

Skip the Soda

According to Young, “Sugary beverages have been linked to weight gain, obesity, and diabetes, and the over 40 crowd needs to be more careful to watch weight and sugar as the pounds creep on as you age. Sugary drinks, also dubbed liquid calories, can contribute to poor health and weight gain. Because you aren’t chewing, it’s easier to drink too much quickly without registering signals of fullness.” 

Limit Oversized Portions

“Large portions contain more calories than small portions and encourage us to eat more. The over 40 crowd needs to watch calories and portions more closely," Young tells us.

Being a Couch Potato

Additionally, Young clarifies, “It is very important if you are over 40 to partake in an exercise routine to help keep your metabolism revved up and to avoid weight gain.”

Limit Late Night Eating

“When we eat late at night, we tend to eat junk food and we don’t have time to burn the calories making it easier to gain weight. Limit the ultra processed foods late at night and if you must have something, enjoy fresh fruit.”