Turning 60? Start Avoiding These 10 Foods According to Science

Hey there, 60-year-olds and soon-to-be 60s! You’ve made it to a pretty cool age, but your body might need a little extra TLC now. One way to keep feeling great is by watching what you eat. Scientists have found that some foods just don’t mix well with our bodies as we get older. Don’t worry, though – I’ve got your back with a list of 10 foods you might want to start avoiding.

1. Processed Meats

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Say goodbye to hot dogs, bacon, and deli meats. These foods are packed with salt, unhealthy fats, and chemicals that can hurt your heart. They’ve been linked to higher risks of cancer, especially colon cancer. Plus, they can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable. Try swapping them for lean chicken, fish, or plant-based proteins instead.

2. Sugary Drinks

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Soda, energy drinks, and even fruit juices can be bad news for your health. They’re full of empty calories and can spike your blood sugar. Over time, they can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and tooth decay. These drinks can also mess with your sleep, leaving you feeling tired. Stick to water, unsweetened tea, or the occasional small glass of 100% fruit juice.

3. White Bread

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It might be a staple, but white bread isn’t doing you any favors. It’s made from refined flour that your body quickly turns into sugar. This can lead to quick energy spikes and crashes. White bread also lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains. Switch to whole grain breads for better nutrition and more stable energy levels.

4. Margarine

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Once thought to be healthier than butter, margarine is now in the doghouse. It’s often high in trans fats, which are terrible for your heart. These fats can raise your bad cholesterol and lower your good cholesterol. Margarine can also contain artificial ingredients and preservatives. If you need to use a spread, go for small amounts of real butter or healthy oils like olive oil.

5. Artificial Sweeteners

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Just because they’re calorie-free doesn’t mean they’re good for you. Artificial sweeteners can mess with your body’s ability to process real sugar. They might even increase your cravings for sweet foods. Some studies suggest they could harm your gut bacteria. Instead of diet sodas or sugar-free treats, try naturally sweet foods like fruit.

6. Canned Soups

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They’re convenient, but many canned soups are sodium bombs. Too much salt can raise your blood pressure and put stress on your heart. These soups often lack fresh vegetables and can be high in preservatives. They might also contain BPA, a chemical in can linings that some experts worry about. Make your own soup at home or look for low-sodium, BPA-free options.

7. Alcohol

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As you get older, your body has a harder time processing alcohol. It can interfere with your medications and make you more likely to fall. Drinking too much can harm your liver, brain, and heart. It might also disrupt your sleep, leaving you tired and cranky. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation – that means no more than one drink a day for most people over 60.

8. Fried Foods

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French fries, fried chicken, and doughnuts might taste good, but they’re not doing your body any favors. These foods are high in unhealthy fats and calories, which can contribute to weight gain, heart problems, and inflammation. Fried foods might also contain acrylamide, a chemical that some studies link to cancer. Try baking or air-frying for a healthier crunch.

9. High-Salt Snacks

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Chips, pretzels, and salted nuts can be hard to resist, but they’re often packed with sodium. Too much salt can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. These snacks are often low in nutrients and high in empty calories. They can also make you feel thirsty and bloated. Swap them for unsalted nuts, fresh veggies, or air-popped popcorn.

10. Grapefruit

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Surprise! This fruit isn’t bad for everyone, but it can be risky if you’re on certain medications. Grapefruit can interfere with how your body processes some drugs, including those for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and anxiety. This interaction can make the drugs too strong or not strong enough. Always check with your doctor about which foods might interact with your medications.

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Mary Apurong

Mary Apurong is an experienced writer and editor who enjoys researching topics related to lifestyle and creating content on gardening, food, travel, crafts, and DIY. She spends her free time doing digital art and watching documentaries. Check out some of her works on Mastermind Quotes.