For most people on approach to their 40s, the biggest concern is minimising those grey hairs. But heading into your 40s and beyond means, you’ve got to put your health under the microscope. As a woman, your health risks will change the older you get. And while there are concerns in your 20s and 30s, you need to know what to look out for, so here are a few things to consider when heading towards your fourth decade.
Vitamin Deficiency
This can be an issue with any age, but as you get older, deficiencies in vitamin D can accelerate certain problems. Other potential deficiencies can include vitamin B, iron, and riboflavin. Of course, a solid diet can help here, but if you feel that you are engaging in a constant battle with food, the help of a dietitian can help to reign in your eating habits and ensure you are having a healthy relationship with food while also being healthy!
Diabetes
The risk of diabetes can increase as you get older. Predominantly, your weight and your diet play a massive role. Regular exercise is crucial to reversing the effects of prediabetes, but also making sure that you have regular check-ups will nip any issues in the bud before they start.
UTI Infections
UTI infections come from a number of different culprits, including physical changes and a healthy sex life. But this is where UTI prevention becomes invaluable, as well as other strategies including healthier urination habits, including sitting on the toilet in a relaxed position.
Heart Disease
Many people associate heart disease with people much older, but if you have poor eating habits, and you do not know the signs and causes of heart conditions, it’s so important to understand this so you can minimise any chance of heart attacks. Heart disease is actually the leading cause of death in women over the age of 40, so do not delay and make sure you get yourself checked out!
Blood Clot
While blood clots can be an issue at any age, there is an increased risk in women over 40. Signs of blood clots include redness, swelling, or pain in your calf, so it’s important to be safe than sorry.
Osteoporosis
Bone loss is a part of getting older, and this can peak following menopause. In fact, you can lose up to 20% of your bone density in less than ten years. One of the best things you can do is to prepare your body for going into menopause by exercising, consuming enough vitamin D, and eating healthily.
Accidental Pregnancy
Many women still think that once they hit 40, birth control is not an issue. Every woman’s body is different, and while pregnancy over 40 is possible, it’s not always the easiest journey. There are increased risks of being pregnant over the age of 40, including preeclampsia.
Adult-Onset Asthma
Asthma doesn’t necessarily develop during childhood. Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to asthma. If you have a nagging cough, or you find yourself being unable to catch your breath, it’s important to visit your doctor.
There are so many things to address in your 40s. Your health, in conjunction with your diet, is just as important as exercising and keeping fit. While heading into your 40s is not heading into middle life just yet, there are still significant risks due to advancing years. The best approach is to protect and prevent.
