As you reach your 40s, you might be looking for all the best anti-ageing well-being tips to help you look and feel your best.
Often referred to as the “the sandwich generation”, this decade can be a tricky time, as you try to fit your needs between those of career, family, and ageing parents. Stress can take its toll now too. And, the run-up to menopause can bring with it some of its own issues.
While the prospect of making changes to your life may seem overwhelming, if you don’t make time to focus on your well-being, you could end up spending even more time and money at the doctor.
The good news is, small changes to your lifestyle can yield big results. Here’s how to focus on yourself and get more energy, sleep better and feel revived…
ALSO SEE: The best anti-ageing strategies for your 30s
Try these anti-ageing well-being tips for your 40s…
For immunity
One of the most important anti-ageing well-being tips for this time of your life is to revive your sex life. Sex stimulates the immune system. A study at Wilkes University found that frequent sex can switch on immunity genes – but with juggling all the above, it can go off the menu.
The Olivia Grey online store aims to bring it back, by delivering erotic items to your home, which you can order online. For couples, items may include dress-up outfits, feather ticklers, etc. Gift cards are also available.
For energy
Swap your Q10. You may already know the antioxidant co-enzyme Q10 is good for cellular growth –what you might not know is that the type you need changes as you age.
“Most Q10 supplements contain ubiquinone, which our body then converts to a form called ubiquinol,” explains pharmacist Shabir Daya. “But, past 40, the levels of enzymes we need to do this decline rapidly, so it’s better to try one of the products that contain ubiquinol itself.” Try Biogen Ubiquinol Co-Q10, R299 for 60 capsules.
ALSO SEE: How to fight fatigue and reclaim your energy
For skin
Take astaxanthin. This antioxidant is not only making news for its health-boosting effects (better brain ageing, heart health and improved energy), it also boosts skin. “It’s been shown to normalise sebum production, which can be erratic now, and acts almost as scaffolding to the skin, fighting ageing,” says nutritionist Miguel Toribio-Mateas.
In younger skin, collagen and elastin fibres support the skin’s layers like scaffolding poles, but as we get older this effect declines. “Astaxanthin can get in-between the skin’s layers and plump them back up,” says Miguel. Try Solgar Astaxanthin 5mg, R240 for 30 capsules.
For hair
Whether your hair is long or short, one of the best anti-ageing tricks is to keep it looking thick and healthy. “If you make just one change for thicker hair, consider your protein intake,” suggests nutritionist Kyla Newcombe.
“Keratin is the protein that makes up your hair structure, so ensure you provide these building blocks. Aim to have 1g of protein per kg of body weight every day by adding nut butter to your morning smoothie; lentils, beans, or cheese to soups and salads; and have good-quality meat, fish or eggs with dinner.”
Also consider using keratin-rich hair products that won’t weigh your hair down, such as Brazilian Keratin Therapy Shampoo, R169 for 385ml.
For sleep
Try drinking vinegar. Research published in the Nature of Science and Sleep has shown that from our 40s, we’re more prone to suffer sleep disturbances. One potential reason is alcohol. Forty- somethings are extremely likely to wind down via wine. We know it might sound boring, but drinking water is such a health booster in all respects.
Another goodie? Coconut water – it’s low in carbs and electrolyte-rich, perfect to help you feel calmer before bed. However, watch out for hidden sugars! Try Kara Coco coconut water, R44,95 for 1litre. It’s 100% pure coconut water.
ALSO SEE: Insomnia, how to get a good night’s sleep
Disclaimer: The information provided within this site is strictly for the purposes of information only and is not a replacement or substitute for professional advice.
