As a 40 plus woman (sometimes I can’t even believe it) I can feel how things are starting to change in my body.
My sleep quality isn’t what it used to be, my energy levels aren’t what they used to be, my joints are achier. My recovery time between workouts (or even after getting a cold) is taking longer than it used to. On a more superficial note those smile lines are getting a little deeper. For a while it was hard for me to accept what that subtle thief known as time was doing to my body, but as I get older and wiser and my understanding that the failure to accept anything in any given moment is a form of suffering, I now embrace this whole aging thing with as much grace as possible.
As a health coach, I also know that there are many things I can do to slow the symptoms associated with aging that I mentioned above. One is ensuring I eat a healthy balanced diet. There really is no replacement for that and it becomes more important than ever as I age. I make sure to get adequate sunlight (which affects quality of sleep and the cell regeneration process). I get exercise daily even if it’s only a walk. Also, I do something that will put stress (good stress) on my body at least 3 days a week. This, in my case, is usually gym sessions.
Another less talked about way to preserve yourself as a woman over 40 is with supplementation. There are several vitamins and minerals that start to deplete a lot faster as we age and so supplementing with the right vitamins and minerals might be advantageous. Some vitamins and minerals can react with different medications so I advise you to check with your physician as to which ones are right for you.
6 Supplements For Women In Their 40s
Vitamin D
Assists in calcium absorption along with reducing the risk of diseases such as MS and heart disease. It also supports immune function.
Magnesium
Women over 40 are at greater risk of high blood pressure which magnesium can help regulate. Ensuring proper levels of magnesium also assists with the absorption of vitamin C. The muscle relaxation properties of magnesium can help with getting a good nights rest. It also supports thyroid function.
Omega 3s
Reduces inflammation in the body, assists in cell membrane structure, supports healthy skin. It also supports cognitive brain function and heart health.
B 12
As we age we don’t absorb B12 as well due to less stomach acid, and so while B12 is found in meat, dairy and eggs it may be wise to add a supplement to your diet. B12 aids in brain and nerve function as well as the production of red blood cells.
Calcium
A vital supplement as we age. If you don’t get enough calcium your blood will begin to steal it from your bones, causing brittle bones.
Multivitamin
If you can get your hands on a good multivitamin with higher levels of B12 than you may not need to take it separately.
I want to stress that I don’t recommend just arbitrarily taking vitamins and minerals. What I do recommend is getting blood work done, especially if you are starting to feel fatigued on a regular basis or have sore joints, and then taking what you actually need. The supplements above is simply what many women 40+ are often deficient in as they age.
A final note. Not all vitamins are created equal. Look for high quality supplements for women to ensure you’re giving your body the best to work with.
