Tuesday Tip: Understanding Ageing Changes 👵🏻

Scientists have known for some time that ageing isn’t linear. As we age, our bodies undergo various changes that can spike at certain milestones. A recent study has identified two distinct phases – around ages 44 and 60.

The study assessed ageing at the molecular level (RNA, proteins, metabolites) and microbes (gut and skin bacteria). It found significant changes in metabolism at two ages – around 44 and 60.

For instance, at around 44 the ability to metabolize substances like caffeine and alcohol shows a marked downward shift. By age 60, there is also a shift in immune function, kidney health, and skin and muscle decline. These changes are accompanied by an increased risk of age-related diseases, including cardiovascular issues and diabetes.

The mid-40s spike in changes was initially thought to be driven by perimenopausal shifts in women, but the data revealed similar changes in men around the same age. This suggests that menopause may contribute, but other factors likely influence these changes for both genders.

Does this mean we’re doomed to accept these declines? Well yes and no. You can’t reverse the process but you can do some things to help mitigate the impact. The study revealed the importance of physical activity and exercise to help mitigate some of these changes in muscle function and metabolism. Also with the decline in the ability to process caffeine and alcohol it might be wise to reduce consumption as we age. Managing stress is also beneficial and as always focusing on a balanced diet rich in nutrients is vital.

It’s also important to recognise these changes impact men and women and whilst many may also experience symptoms of peri menopause/menopause some of these changes are merely a result of the ageing process for everyone.

Understanding the ageing process empowers you to maintain your well-being as you navigate these significant life stages. Rather than worrying about these changes, embrace proactive health measures.

Happy Tuesday 🤗

Xx

Tuesday Tip: Weekend woes 😬

This is an extremely common pattern I see in my clients, and myself. Weekdays are often “ok” calorie wise or even good, and then weekends it goes a bit off track. A common pattern is as follows:

• Super restrictive eating during the week (1200 cals or below)
• Cutting out everything you ‘enjoy’ to meet those low calories
• Resulting in low energy, fatigue, hunger, cravings and resentment.
• Ineffective workouts as energy levels are low
  Then the weekend hits:
• Willpower is low and because you’ve been ‘good’ all week you indulge without restraint
• Brunches, take aways, meals out, drinks, food-centred social events etc tend to occur and you don’t bother calorie counting.
• You also snack on everything you’ve been craving all week.
• End result – massively over your calories over those 1-3 days
• This pushes your weekly calorie average up and halts progress
• You wake up on Monday feeling rubbish, like a failure and end up being more restrictive the following week.
• And it continues….

How do you resolve this?
For starters view your week as a whole and consider the average calories over the whole week. Avoid being too restrictive on weekdays but recognise you’ll want more calories in your budget to spend at the weekend. So save some calories on weekdays (100-150 per day). You’ll head into the weekend feeling less miserable and better able to exercise some control. Plan the weekends – reduce some of the indulgences but factor in some of the things you enjoy. Plan ahead for restaurant meals, drinks etc using those extra calories you’ve saved.

So it’s two pronged – eat a little more during the week, eat a little less at the weekends. Track your weekends rather than viewing them as a free pass. Consistency is key!

Happy Tuesday 🤗
Xx

Tuesday Tip: Trick or Treat Yourself 🎃

Hallowe’en is increasingly becoming more of a ‘thing’ in the UK so it’s worth a quick mention about how to handle the celebration if you do choose to. Here are some fun fitness tips to enjoy Halloween while staying on track.

# Enjoy Real Pumpkin

While pumpkin spice lattes are high in calories, fresh pumpkin is nutritious and low-calorie, with only 26 calories per 100 grams. It’s fibre-rich, keeping you full longer, and contains no saturated fats or cholesterol. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, especially Vitamin C and A, pumpkin supports healthy skin and vision. The seeds are also brilliant too. They are also full of anti-inflammatory compounds and rich in healthy fats, protein and fibre and recent evidence suggests they can help with pelvic floor issues.

# Watch Horror Movies

It may sound strange, but horror movies can help you burn calories! MA recent study found that watching a 90 minute horror film can burn around 113 calories. The adrenaline rush boosts your heart rate and reduces appetite, contributing to calorie burn.

# Take Halloween Walks

Take a leisurely stroll or jog through your neighborhood to admire Halloween decorations. This not only allows you to enjoy the spooky sights but also helps you get some activity in. Plus, if you have children you can use it to scout out which houses are amenable to trick-or-treating.

Eat Before Trick-or-Treating

If you trick-or-treat then eat before you go so you’re less tempted to dip into the children’s stash. When you’re hungry, unhealthy choices are harder to resist.

# Buy sweets last minute and offer alternstievs

If you’re open to people visiting your home to trick-or-treat then consider buying the sweets closer to the day so they’re not sitting around tempting you to tuck in when you’re feeling snacky. Also consider offering other things to trick-or-treaters – fruit may not be popular but unwanted small toys and children’s books might be. You could have a choice of a sweet or a book/toy. So you get to clear out some unwanted items and it’s better for the children’s health).

It is only one day so in the grand scheme of things it doesn’t really matter but it’s always worth being mindful regardless.

Happy Hallowe’en 🎃

Xx