2. Avoid processed desserts to lower mortality risk
No matter what age we are, it’s a good idea to avoid highly processed foods. These types of foods contain large amounts of sugar, salt and saturated fats as well as preservatives, sweeteners and colourants, which contribute to inflammation.
When you’re over 50 though, it’s a must to reduce them as they become much more difficult for your body to digest – and when this happens, harmful levels of inflammation build up.
Chocolate, biscuits and cakes might taste delicious but eating too many in your fifth decade is definitely not a good idea. All that added sugar means that they will significantly increase your chances of contracting diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.
One study published in the British Medical Journal found that eating ultra-processed foods regularly dramatically raised the risk of developing specific types of cancer, while another BMJ study found a strong link between these foods and an increase in all-cause mortality.
Highly processed foods also contribute to excess weight gain – and as you age, obesity raises your risk of developing many serious health conditions even further. To avoid stroke, dementia, heart disease and a weakened immune system it’s vital to slash your intake of processed and refined foods. This doesn’t mean you have to go without though – instead replace processed foods with healthier snacks, like nuts, fruits, seeds, or whole grain breads, as these will all have a positive effect on your health.
