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I'm a 38-Year-Old Fitness Instructor And Here Are My 5 Daily Habits for Staying in Peak Shape

Jamie Maitland tells Body Network about the lifestyle habits.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Jamie Maitland
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Jamie Maitland, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Elite Fitness Instructor, and Multidimensional Health Coach, has made a career out of helping people achieve their diet and fitness goals. Based out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the 38-year-old is living, breathing proof that maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help keep you in the best possible shape. In a recent interview with Body Network, she shared some of her personal health habits, including everything she eats in a day.


Health is a 24-Hour Job, She Says

Jamie, founder of The Office Health and The Office 954 and author of The 21 Day Reset Cookbook, started her fitness career in 2015 by co-founding Fort Lauderdale’s first and largest indoor cycling studio. “That quickly snowballed into a love for teaching and motivating people through fitness, and in 2019, I opened a new unique fitness concept called The Office 954,” she tells us.

“For an hour, people were with me at the studio, and that was the easy part,” she admits. “It was the other 23 hours in the day that I was interested in, which led to furthering education in not just fitness but nutrition and all-around health and wellness. Motivating and inspiring people is what I do best, and it only made sense to combine my two worlds of fitness and nutrition. To this day, I still own and teach at my studio and have also created a health & wellness company that offers the highest quality organic food products, premium supplements, and luxury retreat experiences.”

RELATED:I'm a Nutrition Pro: This 28-Day Walking Routine Burns More Fat Than Cardio

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

When it comes to her diet, Jamie is “all about balance, which is something you create,” she says. “Typically, my day starts with water followed by a pea size scoop of Shilajit (A substance that emerges from the crevices of high mountain ranges in Asia, rich in vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and amino acids) taken on an empty stomach with a cup of coffee.

I’m not much of a breakfast person so lunch is usually my biggest meal which might consist of grass fed grass finished filet or organic corn and soy free chicken with some sort of kitchen sink salad (chopped roasted asparagus, chopped Romaine, scallions, 3 chopped egg white, 1/4 avocado, red onion, endive and peeled & deseed cubed cucumber— all organic ingredients—homemade dressing),” she says.

“If I need something sweet, my chocolate espresso protein muffins have changed my world (lol) and hit the spot! I usually have about 2 of those. Later, after my workout, I will have a 2-scoop protein shake.”

Dinner is her “lightest meal,” consisting of sliced chicken breast or seafood with a roasted vegetable, “sometimes only protein,” she explains. “I am a weird eater and live by this saying ‘your food doesn’t need to make sense to anyone but you!’ Another rule of thumb: I don’t eat past 8 pm.”

She Is a “Qualitarian”

Jamie stresses the importance of hydration. She drinks “at least a gallon” of water per day. “Water is life!” she explains.

“I eat what makes me feel my best. I don’t label myself anything, but if I had to, I would label myself a Qualitarian,” Jamie says. “Quality absolutely matters. You are what you ate, ate— and everything comes from somewhere, know the source. My eating style is designed around the health of my gut. I do my best to stay in tune with what works best for me, and I preach this to my clients. What makes sense to me might not make sense to you. Personally, I prioritize quality protein, healthy fats, and the time that I eat.” In total, she consumes “at least 120-130 grams of protein per day.”

RELATED:I Lost Over 250 Pounds And These Are 11 Habits That Transformed My Body

Top 3 Diet Rules

Here are Jamie’s top 3 diet rules:

  1. Know your body better than anyone. It’s yours to learn!
  2. You don’t need as much food as you think you do. Culture, unfortunately, promotes indulgence; stay conscious, use your brain— and design your life how you see it, not the other way around.
  3. What you stop eating might have a bigger impact than what you start eating.

Here Are Her Essentials

Jamie takes supplements, “but only essentials,” she says. “Everyone is very different, and if you really want to know what you're deficient in, get your blood work done.” The supplements she thinks are essential “that mostly everyone should take” are:

1) Liposomal Vitamin C

2) Vitamin D3 +K2

3) Magnesium L Threonate (magtein)

4) Wild Caught Krill Oil

5) Liver organ complex

6) Grass-fed/grass-finished protein powder

These Are Her Favorite Workouts

Jamie maintains variety with exercise. “Switching up my workouts is what works best for me; I find it mentally stimulating, and on a personal level, I feel and see the best results from diversity,” she tells us. “I love horseback riding and definitely consider that a full-body workout. I don’t ride as much as I would like, but when I do, I love it! Rollerblading is also one of my favorite workouts. I love a good barre and pilates class; lifting weights is a must for me at least 3x a week, and I’ve recently gotten into sprinting, which has been a game changer.”

RELATED:10 Safe Weight Loss Tips from Fitness Guru Jillian Michaels to Shed Pounds Fast

Top 3 Fitness Rules

Here are Jamie’s top 3 fitness rules:

  1. If you have access to a floor, you can get a workout in, we’re born to move—prioritize daily movement.
  2. Don’t underestimate the power of walking, consistently.
  3. Just like your food, your workouts don’t need to make sense to anyone but you.

Sleep and Meditation Are Also Key

Other important health habits, per Jamie, are sleep and meditation. “Good sleep is extremely important and, fortunately, has not ever been a problem for me. Meditation in my opinion is very personal,” she says. “I believe there are many different forms of it and there is no wrong way to meditate.” For example, Rollerblading is one of her forms of meditation. “Believe it or not, I come up with my best ideas when skating and also can get into an intense mental flow state. One could argue that this isn’t meditation but what you believe is your reality,” she says.

And, Don’t Forget to Set Boundaries

“Setting boundaries is an underrated health habit that I find important. When I host my 21 Day Resets this is definitely a subject that comes up quite a bit. So often people spread themselves too thin by saying ‘yes’ to everything or putting others first instead of themselves. Healthy boundaries are necessary,” she says.

RELATED:The 3-Step Secret to Perfect Push-Ups (Even If You Can't Do One Now)

Lymphatic Drainage

Another self-care ritual Jamie swears by is lymphatic drainage. “I frequently get gua sha facials and recently just started adding in full body Brazilian manual lymphatic drainage. If you’ve never done either, do yourself a favor and try adding these rituals into your self care routine! I promise you will feel amazing,” she suggests.

You can find more tips on Jamie's personal Instagram account, or you can follow her on The Office Health or The Office 954. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Jamie Maitland, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Elite Fitness Instructor, and Multidimensional Health Coach, has made a career out of helping people achieve their diet and fitness goals. Based out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the 38-year-old is living, breathing proof that maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help keep you in the best possible shape. In a recent interview with Body Network, she shared some of her personal health habits, including everything she eats in a day.


Health is a 24-Hour Job, She Says

Jamie, founder of The Office Health and The Office 954 and author of The 21 Day Reset Cookbook, started her fitness career in 2015 by co-founding Fort Lauderdale’s first and largest indoor cycling studio. “That quickly snowballed into a love for teaching and motivating people through fitness, and in 2019, I opened a new unique fitness concept called The Office 954,” she tells us.

“For an hour, people were with me at the studio, and that was the easy part,” she admits. “It was the other 23 hours in the day that I was interested in, which led to furthering education in not just fitness but nutrition and all-around health and wellness. Motivating and inspiring people is what I do best, and it only made sense to combine my two worlds of fitness and nutrition. To this day, I still own and teach at my studio and have also created a health & wellness company that offers the highest quality organic food products, premium supplements, and luxury retreat experiences.”

RELATED:I'm a Nutrition Pro: This 28-Day Walking Routine Burns More Fat Than Cardio

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

When it comes to her diet, Jamie is “all about balance, which is something you create,” she says. “Typically, my day starts with water followed by a pea size scoop of Shilajit (A substance that emerges from the crevices of high mountain ranges in Asia, rich in vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and amino acids) taken on an empty stomach with a cup of coffee.

I’m not much of a breakfast person so lunch is usually my biggest meal which might consist of grass fed grass finished filet or organic corn and soy free chicken with some sort of kitchen sink salad (chopped roasted asparagus, chopped Romaine, scallions, 3 chopped egg white, 1/4 avocado, red onion, endive and peeled & deseed cubed cucumber— all organic ingredients—homemade dressing),” she says.

“If I need something sweet, my chocolate espresso protein muffins have changed my world (lol) and hit the spot! I usually have about 2 of those. Later, after my workout, I will have a 2-scoop protein shake.”

Dinner is her “lightest meal,” consisting of sliced chicken breast or seafood with a roasted vegetable, “sometimes only protein,” she explains. “I am a weird eater and live by this saying ‘your food doesn’t need to make sense to anyone but you!’ Another rule of thumb: I don’t eat past 8 pm.”

She Is a “Qualitarian”

Jamie stresses the importance of hydration. She drinks “at least a gallon” of water per day. “Water is life!” she explains.

“I eat what makes me feel my best. I don’t label myself anything, but if I had to, I would label myself a Qualitarian,” Jamie says. “Quality absolutely matters. You are what you ate, ate— and everything comes from somewhere, know the source. My eating style is designed around the health of my gut. I do my best to stay in tune with what works best for me, and I preach this to my clients. What makes sense to me might not make sense to you. Personally, I prioritize quality protein, healthy fats, and the time that I eat.” In total, she consumes “at least 120-130 grams of protein per day.”

RELATED:I Lost Over 250 Pounds And These Are 11 Habits That Transformed My Body

Top 3 Diet Rules

Here are Jamie’s top 3 diet rules:

  1. Know your body better than anyone. It’s yours to learn!
  2. You don’t need as much food as you think you do. Culture, unfortunately, promotes indulgence; stay conscious, use your brain— and design your life how you see it, not the other way around.
  3. What you stop eating might have a bigger impact than what you start eating.

Here Are Her Essentials

Jamie takes supplements, “but only essentials,” she says. “Everyone is very different, and if you really want to know what you're deficient in, get your blood work done.” The supplements she thinks are essential “that mostly everyone should take” are:

1) Liposomal Vitamin C

2) Vitamin D3 +K2

3) Magnesium L Threonate (magtein)

4) Wild Caught Krill Oil

5) Liver organ complex

6) Grass-fed/grass-finished protein powder

These Are Her Favorite Workouts

Jamie maintains variety with exercise. “Switching up my workouts is what works best for me; I find it mentally stimulating, and on a personal level, I feel and see the best results from diversity,” she tells us. “I love horseback riding and definitely consider that a full-body workout. I don’t ride as much as I would like, but when I do, I love it! Rollerblading is also one of my favorite workouts. I love a good barre and pilates class; lifting weights is a must for me at least 3x a week, and I’ve recently gotten into sprinting, which has been a game changer.”

RELATED:10 Safe Weight Loss Tips from Fitness Guru Jillian Michaels to Shed Pounds Fast

Top 3 Fitness Rules

Here are Jamie’s top 3 fitness rules:

  1. If you have access to a floor, you can get a workout in, we’re born to move—prioritize daily movement.
  2. Don’t underestimate the power of walking, consistently.
  3. Just like your food, your workouts don’t need to make sense to anyone but you.

Sleep and Meditation Are Also Key

Other important health habits, per Jamie, are sleep and meditation. “Good sleep is extremely important and, fortunately, has not ever been a problem for me. Meditation in my opinion is very personal,” she says. “I believe there are many different forms of it and there is no wrong way to meditate.” For example, Rollerblading is one of her forms of meditation. “Believe it or not, I come up with my best ideas when skating and also can get into an intense mental flow state. One could argue that this isn’t meditation but what you believe is your reality,” she says.

And, Don’t Forget to Set Boundaries

“Setting boundaries is an underrated health habit that I find important. When I host my 21 Day Resets this is definitely a subject that comes up quite a bit. So often people spread themselves too thin by saying ‘yes’ to everything or putting others first instead of themselves. Healthy boundaries are necessary,” she says.

RELATED:The 3-Step Secret to Perfect Push-Ups (Even If You Can't Do One Now)

Lymphatic Drainage

Another self-care ritual Jamie swears by is lymphatic drainage. “I frequently get gua sha facials and recently just started adding in full body Brazilian manual lymphatic drainage. If you’ve never done either, do yourself a favor and try adding these rituals into your self care routine! I promise you will feel amazing,” she suggests.

You can find more tips on Jamie's personal Instagram account, or you can follow her on The Office Health or The Office 954. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Liz_Hilliard_5844
Liz Hilliard
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Liz Hilliard, 70, is living, breathing proof that age is just a number. The pilates instructor, who trains out of her studio Hilliard Studio Method, discovered the workout when she was 48, and completely transformed her approach to health. Over the years she has managed to learn a few things about longevity, revealing her secrets in an interview with Body Network.


Liz Used to Rely on Traditional Workouts

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Liz, who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, explains that she was athletic throughout her childhood and enjoyed playing basketball and other team sports. “Traditional workouts always felt boring and offered minimal results for the time and energy put into them, " she says. Until I was in my late 40s, I relied on tennis and walking as my main sources of exercise.

RELATED: I'm a Personal Trainer and These 5 Moves Banished My Clients' Bat Wings in Weeks

She Discovered Pilates at Age 48

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

“At age 48, I attended my first Pilates class and immediately felt incredibly challenged. I even had fun, which led me to become certified in Pilates,” she says. In 2002, she opened her first personal Pilates training studio. “It was a successful business, and my clients were seeing real results. However, at age 51, while going through menopause, I noticed despite my Pilates workout, my belly fat was increasing, and my overall strength was decreasing as well, aka flabby arms and sagging bottom."

Fusing Strength Training with Pilates Was a Game-Changer

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

"Inspired by my daughter, who was getting married and sculpting up for her wedding, I began researching heavy resistance training and hired my own personal trainer to try to sculpt my 51-year-old, menopausal body. We implemented heavy weight training, and I was determined to debunk the ‘bulking’ myth that most women feel about weightlifting," Liz says.

"The short story is that adding heavier resistance training to my core-centric Pilates workout began to sculpt my body in ways I hadn’t seen before using only traditional Pilates. That’s when I devised my Method. By incorporating heavy resistance with the core-centric exercises of Pilates, the Hilliard Studio Method was born."

She Shaved Inches Off Her Waistline

Slim young woman measuring her thin waist with a tape measure, close upShutterstock

Hillard, who has since authored the book "Be Powerful: Find Your Strength at Any Age" and co-hosts the Be Powerful Podcast, has remained 135 pounds throughout most of her life. “Muscle weighs more than fat, so I was replacing adipose tissue with muscle. My body was sculpting and changing at a rapid rate, especially given that I was in the throes of menopause. I lost inches around my waist, my arms became strong and sculpted, my abs flattened, and my glutes lifted. My entire body changed over the course of a year or less,” she says.

She Works Out 4 to 5 Times a Week

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

What are the most important things she learned about getting in shape? “Find a workout that you enjoy, or you won’t stick with it. Our lives are busy, so finding a workout that efficiently provides resistance combined with stretch and enough cardio is essential. I do my workout at Hilliard Studio Method 4 to 5 times a week because we change the workout daily, moving through compound exercising and utilizing different resistance tools like balls, gliders, and bands to continuously cause muscle confusion and avoid the dreadful plateau, both mentally and physically. We keep the work fun and evolving, low impact yet high intensity. The amazing side effect of getting in physical shape is that one’s mental and emotional outlook becomes far more positive. Strength training like I do at HSM is the fountain of youth,” she continues.

RELATED: This Woman Gave Up Processed Sugar and Got Into the Best Shape of Her Life at 54 By Doing These 4 Things

Get Your Steps In

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Her top workout suggestions? “Walk every day and everywhere. Get outside as often as possible to walk in nature. Bonus points if you walk with a friend. It’s built-in mental and physical therapy, which will not only help keep you fit but also lift your mood and keep your mind creative,” she says.

Strength Train Four Times a Week

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Also, strength training 4 times per week. “Strength training is an absolute requirement for healthy aging and simply means load-bearing exercises that require your muscles to engage. This can include anything from hand weights, resistance bands, weighted balls or any weighted object that taxes and builds skeletal muscles. Skeletal muscle strength allows the body to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight while setting the body up for success when inevitable accidents happen, so you are far less likely to avoid falling and breaking bones,” she says.

It’s Never Too Late to Get in Shape

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

What is her message for women out there who are struggling to get in shape? “It’s never too late, and you’re never too old or out of shape to start exercising. By simply getting out of your chair and going for a 20-minute walk, you’ll have the immediate feedback of feeling better physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she says.

Make Exercise Social

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

She also recommends connecting with friends to walk, workout, “and just talk every day,” she says. “Walking and talking with a friend or acquaintance is the perfect combo for both physical and mental health! Add resistance training to your workout, which can be as simple as a plank for as long as you can hold it until you work for up to a minute. Then go for 2 minutes or more. This is resistance training and incredible for your core and overall fitness! Then add a pushup on your knees, which is basically a moving plank that strengthens your arms, back, and core, not to mention flattens your abs. Do as many as you can, and try to work up to 20 or more. Mostly, just keep moving every single day. Our bodies are designed to move. The fastest way to early aging is to stop moving. The move it or lose it cliché is true.”

RELATED: I Help Women Over 35 Lose Weight: 9 Eating Errors You Must Stop Today

Try the Hilliard Studio Method at Home

Athletic woman in stylish sportswear doing lunges exercises at home in bedroom.Shutterstock

She says she “takes working out to the next level to produce results that are nothing short of a total mind-body transformation for women and men of all ages and stages,” she says. “Hilliard Studio Method group classes are designed to be taken on a regular basis. Each class is different from the day before. Our energetic and encouraging trainers utilize a variety of powerful movements and workout tools in a high intensity, low impact method driven by empowering, beat-driven music; think personal training in a group setting.” Her classes can also be done virtually via an online streaming platform and live Zoom classes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Christine Roderick corexchristine
Copyright corexchristine/Instagram

Are you letting your age be an excuse for not getting into shape? One 57-year-old expert who looks half her age has some recommendations to help you burn fat and achieve your best body. Christine Roderick is an “age positive” fitness trainer who helps “women over 40 transform their body, mind & spirits.” In a new social media post, she shows off her flat abs and reveals all her healthy daily habits that help her achieve her fantastic figure. “What I do for maximum fat burning at 57,” she writes. “Use this template for a week, 2 weeks or a month to get results,” she adds, sharing “what a typical day looks like” in her life.

Intermittent Fasting

Her first habit is intermittent fasting. “Fast 12-13 hours,” she recommends. Intermittent fasting prolongs “the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Hydration

Christine wakes up at 6:15 a.m. The first thing she does is hydrate. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Coffee

Christina drinks a “loaded” coffee latte at 7:00 a.m. She adds @cymbiotika nootropic creamer and one scoop of collagen. According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking coffee in moderation has several benefits. “It acts on your brain to improve memory, mood, reaction times, and mental function,” they say, citing a study finding that caffeine can improve endurance and performance during exercise. It is also antioxidant-rich, can ward off diabetes, prevent neurologic disease, lower cancer risk, and ward off depression, they point out.

Protein Before Workout

At 8:00 a.m., she hits the gym for a challenging strength training workout “with about 15 grams of protein as fuel & water with. @kion aminos,” she reveals. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

For breakfast, Christine consumes 30 to 49 grams of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. She might eat eggs, lean meat, avocado, and whole grain toast or have a protein shake with prebiotic powder. Lunch is her largest meal of the day, “lean protein, bit more complex crabs & veggies ( i.e. salmon, leafy green salad & brown rice )” she writes. At 3 she will have a snack, 20 grams of protein in the form of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or hummus with veggies or seed cracker. Dinner might be lean meat, grilled veggies, and salad. “I tend to skip a lot of carbs at night but if I do do it it’s usually quinoa or a whole grain,” she says. For dessert, she will have “chocolate something!” she says. In total she aims for 120 grams of protein.

Stretching or Yoga

She also does stretch or yoga in the afternoon “to work on mobility & flexibility,” she says. “Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints,” says Harvard Health. “Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight. Then, when you call on the muscles for activity, they are weak and unable to extend all the way. That puts you at risk for joint pain, strains, and muscle damage.”

Walking

Christine gets her steps in. She explains that she is “trying to incorporate the 15-20 minute walk after dinner at a 50% so far lol but really want this in my life,” she writes. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day reduced the risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Tea Before Bed

She also avoids eating 2 to 3 hours before bed, “just a habit I made myself get consistent with,” she says. “I drink tea or sugar free cacao if I need something.” Numerous studies have shown that various teas may boost your immune system, fight inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.

Supplements

Christine takes supplements throughout the day:

Morning supplements: @fatty15, @seed probiotics @joiwomenswellness NAD, glutathione, C & methylated vitamin B 12

Afternoon supplements: @modere_us collagen & Trim ( Cla) @cymbiotika D3K2 @udeawellness the hair pill & omega 3 supplement

Evening supplements: Magnesium threonate & citrate for calm & progesterone

Sleep

Lastly, she prioritizes sleep. “In bed by 10 hopefully!!!!” she writes. According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.

Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Don’t let menopause be an excuse for not getting into shape. Annie Murray (@anniesfitnesssteyning) is a 54-year-old fitness trainer whose mission is “empowering mid-lifers to get strong, build healthy habits, and be the best version of themselves.” She regularly offers fitness, motivation, and nutrition tips to her followers on how to be the healthiest version of themselves through and beyond menopause. In a recent viral post, she reveals how she got into the best shape of her life and the changes she made to get there.


In the First Photo She Was 42 and Perimenopausal

Annie shares before-and-after images of herself during the perimenopausal stage and after menopause. “The photo on the left was taken when I was 42 years old. At the time, I was perimenopausal with low Tmuscle mass, low body weight, and low energy. I was constantly ill, experiencing bouts of shingles and chest infections,” she says.

This Was Her Training Routine and Diet

Home training concept. Smiling senior woman doing elbow plank on yoga mat in living room. Positive mature lady doing her workout routine, exercising indoors, strengthening her core musclesShutterstock

Her nutrition and exercise routine consisted of:

- Hours of cardio

- Bodyweight exercises

- Cutting out food groups

- Yo-yo dieting

- Eating too much convenience food, processed sugar and refined carbohydrates

- Drinking alcohol regularly

She Is Healthier at 54 Than She Was at 42

“The photo on the right was taken last week when I turned 54,” she continues. “I am currently post-menopausal, with high muscle mass and low body fat. My body weight has increased, I eat more, I have higher energy levels, and my immune system is strong. My metabolic age is 36, with a visceral fat rating of 2.”

Strength Training

One woman mature caucasian female slim hands hold dumbbell while training at home or fitness center real people healthy lifestyle concept copy spaceShutterstock

She then goes on to detail her “nutrition and exercise” routine. She starts off by revealing she does strength training three times a week.

Cardio

Shot of athlete woman exercising on assault air bike.Shutterstock

She also makes sure to get cardio in, but doesn’t do as much. She does “cardio training 2-3x\week,” she writes.

Walking

woman walking towards unknown placesShutterstock

She also makes sure to get her steps in. “Walking daily” is part of her routine.

Nutritious Whole Foods

Happy vegan woman smiling at the camera while eating a vegetable salad from a bowl. Senior woman enjoying a plant-based breakfast after a home workout. Mature woman taking care of her ageing body.Shutterstock

As for her diet, she tries to keep it clean. “Eating nutritious whole-food,” is her focus.

Protein

Raw chicken breast sliced or cut pieces on wooden cutting board with herbs and spices on dark slate, stone, concrete background. Raw chicken meat. Top view with copy space. Mock up.Shutterstock

She also understands the importance of fueling up with protein. “Eating a minimum of 100g protein a day,” is key, she says.

No Processed Sugar or Refined Carbohydrates

Unhealthy Chocolate Cookies with Vanilla Cream FillingShutterstock

One of her biggest no-nos when it comes to diet? “No processed sugar or refined carbohydrates,” she writes.

No Alcohol

Group of happy friends toasting and drinking fancy cocktails at bar terrace-Three Young girls drink mojito and clinking glass together at pub enjoying happy hour at summer party- Life Style conceptShutterstock

There is something else she avoids: Drinking her calories. “No alcohol” is her other major, don’t.

She Discovered Weights at 48

Fit mature woman in sportswear lifting a dumbbell during a strength training session at the gymShutterstock

“At the age of 48, I became a personal trainer and started to incorporate lighter weights into my fitness routine. At 50, I started to strength train in the gym using the progressive load technique (increasing the weight or number of reps over time). That’s when I discovered the power of lifting weights and the importance of having lean muscle mass,” she says.

Here Is Why Muscle Is Important

Fitness woman in sportswear trains shoulder muscles, doing dumbbell press while sitting on bench in gym. Back viewShutterstock

According to Annie, muscle is the “key” to:

✨ better body composition

✨ burning fat

✨ driving your metabolism

✨ protecting against disease

✨ regulating blood sugar

✨ controlling hunger

✨ increased mobility

✨ better mood

✨ increased energy

She Is “Fitter, Stronger, and Healthier” Than She Was in Her 20s

Mature lady in white shirt holding hands behind her head and expressing positive emotions while spending time outdoors.Shutterstock

Overall, she is happy where she is today. “I can safely say, I am fitter, stronger and healthier now, than I was in my 20’s,” she says.

Having Lean Muscle “Is Key”

Middle age sportswoman smiling happy training at the park.Shutterstock

“If you’re serious about staying healthy whilst you age, then having lean muscle is key. The only way to build and maintain muscle is to lift weights and don’t stop. Combined this with good nutrition and that’s the formula that’s worked for me,” she says.

She Adds That “It’s Never too Late”

Beautiful mature senior woman at home, domestic life and leisure moments - 50-60 years old pretty female adult wearing sportswear eating healthy food after fitness workoutShutterstock

Her final words of wisdom? “If I can do it, so can you. It’s never too late, and you are never too old to start,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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YouTube health and lifestyle influencer Candi Randolph (Inspire My Style) is in her mid-60s and in the best shape of her life—and she says you can do it, too. Randolph is passionate about women in their 50s and 60s thriving, not just health and fitness-wise but in overall wellness and quality of life. “Fitness after 60 is a commitment,” she says. “It doesn't happen by chance, nor does it happen automatically. You have to make it happen for yourself, my friend. Work within any limitations that you may have. Make sure you follow any doctor's instructions that you are under the care of, and be wise and smart about what you do. But just remember, you are never too old to stay in shape.” Here’s how she does it.


The Joy of Walking Every Day

Health, nature and senior woman on walk in the morning for exercise, wellness and fitness in park. Healthy, outdoor and elderly lady in retirement from Australia walking in garden for cardio workout.Shutterstock

Randolph loves getting her steps outdoors. “Walking outdoors is always my first choice when it's possible. And I aim to walk about 7,500 steps just about every day, more if I can. It's a daily activity for me, and it really is part of my self-care because it helps me to feel like, well, me.”

Walking Inside Home

Elder family hikers pair fun stroll. Two happy old sportsman enjoy romantic date. Old sporty couple nordic walk poles green nature forest park. Elderly people fit workout. Old grandparents joy smile.Shutterstock

Staying active throughout the day is crucial, and that’s aside from any structured exercise routine. “I manage to get in 7-10,000 steps almost every day without leaving my home,” Randolph says. “There's a lot of places you can walk inside your home, even if it's small. I don't live in a big home, but I managed to do that. So getting steps in and keeping your body active are important.”

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Healthy Diet

Happy elderly couple smiling husband and wife in aprons prepare salad together at kitchen table, chopping variety of colorful vegetables, trying to maintain healthy lifestyle eating vegetarian foodShutterstock

Randolph makes a point to eat a healthy, balanced diet that adequately fuels her workouts—but admits it takes discipline. “If in my sixties I allowed myself to indulge every time I felt like it, I probably wouldn't fit behind this desk,” she says. “So there is discipline involved for sure. I don't deprive myself of any of the foods and things that I like, but I am careful to balance proteins, fats, and carbs pretty much every day. It's the way I eat.”

Positive Routines

Taking care of your mind is also important. “How we feed our mind and our spirit and how we go through our day makes a difference as well,” she says. “Having routines that keep us moving forward in a positive direction, like a morning routine or even evening routine before we go to bed, things like that, that we make a part of our life are all essential components of fitness and a healthy lifestyle as we get older.”

Low-Impact Exercises

Positive mature woman doing aerobics exercises with group of people in dance centerShutterstock

Randolph recommends low-impact exercises to stay strong and independent. “There are plenty of low impact aerobics type exercises that can be done that a relatively healthy person in their sixties and seventies can accomplish,” she says. “You can accomplish so much towards keeping your body strong without using any weights at all. You use your own body weight. My focus is not on seeing how big my muscles can get, but keeping them firm and strong so that I can do the daily tasks that I want to do.”

RELATED:I'm 50+ and These 7 Fat-Blasting Habits Keep Me in the Best Shape of My Life

Functional Fitness

Smiling senior woman making squat exercise at home, active sporty elderly lady training on her yoga mat, smiling during fitness workout in her airy, well-lit living room, copy spaceShutterstock

Randolph’s goals are to be able to lift and play with her grandchildren with ease, so she focuses on functional fitness and balance. “Functional fitness is doing exercises that include several different body movements that would mimic things like bending down to pick up a bag of groceries off the floor or picking something up off the floor and then putting it up on a shelf or into a cabinet, maybe bending down to tie a shoe,” she says.

Stationary Bike

Portrait of active mature woman training on stationary bike workout in gymShutterstock

Getting your heart rate up is important, Randolph says. “Other types of similar exercise would be biking, whether it's a stationary bike or a bicycle outside strength training, keeping our muscles strong, low impact aerobics, getting our heart rate moving without jumping all around. And then as part of strength training exercises that include functional fitness and balance so that we can move around as we need to in our daily activities without hurting ourselves.”

Crunches and Glute Bridges

Gym, stomach workout and woman with fitness, sport and abs exercise for wellness, health and care. Training, athlete and thinking with crunches, abdomen muscle and core strength on the floorShutterstock

“Moving floor exercises are one type of strength training that we can do, and I aim to get in my strength training exercises several times a week,” Randolph says. “So here's just a couple of examples. I've been doing crunches and glute bridges for years, and they really help me stay strong and relatively fit. It really is amazing what you can accomplish by using just your body weight.”

RELATED:I Hit 60 and These Daily Habits Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger

Inspirational Words

Randolph emphasizes how important it is to take charge of your health. My commitment to living a healthy lifestyle really is at the top or the forefront of my daily activities because if I don't take care of myself, no one else is going to do it for me,” she says. “There are several essentials to a healthy lifestyle. Exercise is one of them. Certainly eating well, eating balanced meals, getting the right nutrients for our bodies that are getting older, self-care, giving our body, mind, and heart the regular care they need to keep us positive and motivated every day.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

10 Foods That Secretly Burn Fat After 40
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Let's face it—hitting 40 comes with some unwelcome surprises for most of us. Suddenly, those extra pounds seem to appear out of nowhere, and the weight loss strategies that worked in your 30s just don't cut it anymore. But before you throw in the towel, here's some good news: certain foods can actually help kick your metabolism back into gear.

We've dug into the latest research from top medical institutions and talked to leading experts to uncover the foods that can help you burn fat after 40. No fad diets or miracle pills—just real, science-backed nutrition that works.

Why Your Body Changes After 40 (And What to Do About It)

Unhealthy overweight Asian fat woman catching on her big belly and arm close up, woman concerned about her fat and body shape problem.Shutterstock

"It doesn't matter what you've always done before—that doesn't fly anymore," saysDr. Monica Christmas, who runs the menopause program at University of Chicago Medicine. She's seen countless patients struggle with the same story. "When your hormone levels drop, your body starts losing muscle, and that means you're burning fewer calories even at rest."

Dr. Robert Creel from Cleveland Clinic puts it bluntly: "Your muscles are like engines that burn fuel. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn just sitting on your couch." After 40, maintaining that engine becomes job number one.

Ready to refuel your body's fat-burning potential? Let's dive into the foods that can help.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

1. Lean Proteins

A close-up shot of a grilled salmon fillet on a hot BBQ grill. The fish is seasoned and cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and juicy flesh. For your background business, poster, wallpaper​Lean ProteinShutterstock

Think of protein as your body's ultimate fat-fighting fuel. Chicken, fish, lean beef, tofu—they all help preserve precious muscle mass that naturally diminishes after 40.

Here's something fascinating from Harvard researchers: your body burns 15-30% of protein calories during digestion, compared to just 5-10% for carbs and a measly 0-3% for fats. That extra calorie burn happens automatically, just by choosing protein-rich foods.

Dr. Roger Blumenthal from Johns Hopkins Medicine loves to remind his patients: "Your muscles are literally the engines that burn calories in your body. Feed them right, and they'll work for you around the clock."

How to enjoy it: Start your day with eggs and veggies, grab a grilled chicken salad for lunch, or try a palm-sized portion of wild salmon for dinner. Aim for 25-30 grams of protein at each meal to keep your metabolism humming.

2. Greek Yogurt

Serving of Yogurt with Whole Fresh Blueberries and Oatmeal on Old Rustic Wooden Table. Closeup Detail.

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That creamy container of Greek yogurt in your fridge? It's actually a secret weapon against stubborn fat. With double the protein of regular yogurt and a healthy dose of probiotics, it's a one-two punch for your metabolism.

Dietitians at the Cleveland Clinic have found that the probiotics in yogurt help balance gut bacteria—which might be even more important after 40, when digestive efficiency naturally declines. Plus, the calcium in Greek yogurt has been linked to lower levels of belly fat, which becomes more of an issue with age.

How to enjoy it: Skip the sugary flavored versions and go for plain. Add a drizzle of honey and berries for a satisfying snack, use it as a sour cream replacement, or blend it into smoothies for a protein boost.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

3. Fatty Fish

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Salmon, mackerel, and sardines aren't just delicious—they're packed with omega-3 fatty acids that fight the inflammation that often increases after 40.

Scientists at the NIH discovered something remarkable: omega-3s can increase your resting metabolic rate by up to 14% and boost fat burning during exercise by a whopping 27%. Talk about a winning combination.

"When we look at heart health after 40, fatty fish really shines," says a cardiologist at Johns Hopkins Medicine. "The same omega-3s that protect your heart are also helping reduce that internal inflammation that makes weight loss so difficult in midlife."

How to enjoy it: Aim for two servings of fatty fish weekly. Try simple grilled salmon with lemon or sardines on whole-grain toast for lunch, or add mackerel to your favorite salad.

4. Whole Grains

Boiled quinoa in white bowl on brown wooden table​30. QuinoaShutterstock

Forget what you've heard about cutting all carbs. Your body after 40 still needs them—just the right kind.

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic found something surprising when they studied whole grains in people under 50: those eating whole grains instead of refined ones had three times better blood pressure readings. That's huge for metabolic health, which directly impacts how well you burn fat.

"Whole grains provide steady energy without the crashes," explains a nutrition researcher at Cleveland Clinic. "After 40, those energy crashes can trigger stress hormones that promote fat storage, especially around the middle."

How to enjoy them: Start your day with steel-cut oats, swap white rice for brown or quinoa, and choose whole grain bread with at least 3 grams of fiber per slice.

5. Eggs

Avocado toast with poached egg on a wooden board. Breakfast concept.​Don’t Skip BreakfastShutterstock

Eggs have made a major comeback in nutrition circles, and for good reason. They're nature's perfect little package of high-quality protein, vitamin D, and choline—a nutrient that helps your body burn fat and is often lacking in our diets.

Research from the University of Connecticut found something interesting: people who eat eggs for breakfast naturally eat fewer calories throughout the day. The protein and healthy fats keep hunger hormones in check—a major win when battling age-related weight gain.

How to enjoy them: A two-egg breakfast with veggies and a slice of whole-grain toast makes a perfect metabolism-boosting morning meal. Hard-boiled eggs also make great portable snacks when you need something satisfying on the go.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

6. Legumes

Wooden bowl and wooden spoon full of chickpeas on wooden background. Top view.​23. ChickpeasShutterstock

Lentils, black beans, and chickpeas might not be the sexiest foods in your kitchen, but they pack a one-two punch against age-related weight gain: fiber and protein.

Harvard researchers have found that this combination helps stabilize blood sugar—crucial after 40 when insulin resistance becomes more common. When your blood sugar stays steady, you avoid the energy crashes that lead to cravings and overeating.

How to enjoy them: Toss chickpeas into your salad, add lentils to soups, try bean-based pasta, or whip up a quick lunch of black bean and avocado wrap.

7. Green Tea

Close up of green tea being poured from teapot into cupShutterstock

Green tea isn't just a soothing ritual—it's loaded with compounds that give your metabolism a gentle nudge in the right direction.

NIH research shows that the catechins and caffeine in green tea work together to boost metabolism beyond what caffeine alone can do. While no single food or drink works miracles, green tea drinkers consistently show better results in weight management studies.

How to enjoy it: Replace your afternoon coffee with green tea, or start your morning with a cup. For maximum benefits, brew your own rather than buying bottled versions with added sugar.

8. Nuts and Seeds

Various seeds , nuts seeds , pumpkin seeds and varies in glass jarShutterstock

"They're calorie-dense, but that doesn't mean you should avoid them," says Harvard Health about nuts and seeds. In fact, people who regularly eat nuts tend to be leaner than those who don't—seemingly contradicting their high calorie count.

The protein, fiber, and healthy fats in almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds create the perfect satisfied feeling that helps prevent overeating. Plus, they require more energy to digest than many other snacks.

How to enjoy them: Stick to about 1/4 cup (a small handful) daily. Add a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds to your morning smoothie, sprinkle chopped walnuts on your salad, or grab a small handful of almonds for an afternoon snack

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

9. Leafy Greens

Kale chips on a baking sheet on parchment.​Zucchini or Kale ChipsShutterstock

You've heard it your whole life: eat your greens. After 40, this advice becomes even more crucial.

"When we look at the most successful weight managers after midlife, high vegetable intake is always a common factor," notes a dietitian at Mayo Clinic. "The fiber fills you up, the nutrients support metabolism, and the volume satisfies hunger cues—all with minimal calories."

How to enjoy them: Start meals with a simple salad, add spinach to smoothies (you won't taste it), wrap sandwich fillings in large lettuce leaves instead of bread, or roast kale with a little olive oil for a crunchy snack.

10. Water

Detox water with sliced cucumber in a drinking glass

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It sounds too simple to be true, but researchers at the University of Utah discovered that properly hydrated people burn more calories than those who are even slightly dehydrated. In fact, dehydration can slow metabolism by as much as 3%—and many of us walk around mildly dehydrated without even realizing it.

After 40, our thirst signals often become less reliable, making conscious hydration even more important.

How to enjoy it: Start the day with a full glass of water, keep a refillable bottle with you, add fruit slices or herbs for natural flavor, and eat water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, and strawberries.

Putting It All Together: Your After-40 Eating Strategy

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Here's what Dr. M. Regina Castro from Mayo Clinic tells her patients who are struggling with midlife weight changes: "You need to reset your body's metabolic expectations through consistent, gradual changes. Your meals should feature lean proteins alongside fruits and vegetables—this combination supports your changing metabolism."

Cleveland Clinic experts have another crucial tip: when you eat matters too. "Your body processes the exact same food differently depending on the time of day," they explain. "After 40, eating earlier in the day tends to work better for metabolism than late-night meals."

Dr. Christmas cuts right to the chase with her patients: "You can't exercise your way out of a bad diet, and you can't eat your way out of being inactive. After 40, you need both pieces working together."

The Bottom Line

Happy mature woman with arms outstretched feeling the breeze at beach. Beautiful middle aged woman with arms up dancing on beach. Mid lady feeling good and enjoying freedom at sea, copy space.5 Menopause-Soothing Foods for Quick ReliefShutterstock

These 10 foods aren't magical—they work by supporting your body's changing needs after 40. They help maintain muscle mass, reduce inflammation, stabilize blood sugar, and keep your energy levels steady—all crucial factors in maintaining a healthy weight in midlife and beyond.

The best news? They're delicious, accessible, and can easily become part of your everyday eating. No extreme diets or bizarre superfoods required—just real, wholesome nutrition that works with your body, not against it.

It’s important to remember that weight management after 40 is about more than just food. Regular strength training, quality sleep, stress management, and staying hydrated all work together with good nutrition to keep your metabolism running at its best. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Laura Try lauratryuk
Copyright Laura Try/YouTube/Instagram
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

We spend hours hunched over desks and slouched on couches, rarely challenging our bodies to move the way they naturally should. Digital coachLaura Try, with over 170,000 YouTube subscribers, invites us to reclaim a fundamental human position that many of us have lost: the deep squat. "Modern-day living and this chair-filled life is causing some of us to move less and with less range of motion," Laura explains. Try this simple test to discover where your mobility stands—you might be surprised at what you learn about your body.

What Is the Deep Squat Test?

The deep squat test challenges you to hold a deep squat position for as long as possible, ideally reaching the full 10 minutes. "The deep squat, otherwise known as the Asian or primal squat, is meant to be a resting position," Laura says. The challenge requires no equipment and can be done anywhere. It's not just about holding the position but assessing how your body responds to this natural human posture.

RELATED:5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

The Lost Resting Position

What we now consider an exercise was once a normal resting position. Babies naturally squat with ease, and people of all ages in many cultures around the world use this position daily. It's not about age or special abilities—it's about regular practice. Laura points out, "They do it all the time and perhaps we should too." Being able to get into a deep squat is an indicator of total body mobility.

Why We Struggle With Squatting

Modern living has dramatically reduced our need to get low to the ground. "Once upon a time we'd have crouched down to light a fire, prepare our meals or investigate an edible plant growing on the ground. Now we have most things that we need at a convenient height," Laura notes. Our chair-dependent lifestyle has created what fitness expert Kelly Starrett calls "an imbalance between the environment and organism"—the way we live doesn't match what our bodies are designed to do.

Benefits Beyond Flexibility

The deep squat offers more than just improved mobility. "This concertina effect, even though our body is folded over, it kind of untangles the body by unlocking the ankles, hips and back," Laura explains. Regular practice can help with total body alignment, potentially reducing lower back pain and other issues. The position creates a full-body stretching and strengthening effect that counters the tightness from sedentary living.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

Making the Squat Accessible

Not everyone can immediately drop into a perfect deep squat—and that's perfectly okay. "Practicing this doesn't require you to be miserable; it can be enjoyable," Laura reassures. She suggests several modifications: placing something under your heels, using the wall for support, or even sitting on a low block. The goal isn't perfection but spending time in a version of the position that works for your body.

Laura's Personal Journey

Even fitness professionals struggle with this fundamental movement. "Believe me when I say six or seven years ago I could not get into a deep squat let alone stay here," Laura admits. Her ankles were tight, her shins would burn, and her hips and lower back would scream in protest. The position felt completely unnatural to her at first, defying the idea that it could ever be restful. Yet with consistent practice, her body adapted.

The "Use It or Lose It" Principle

Our bodies adapt to the demands we place on them—or don't place on them. "If we don't use our bodies and joints to their full range of motion what happens? They tighten up, use it or lose it," Laura emphasizes. By regularly practicing the deep squat, we signal to our body that this range of motion is important, helping to maintain or restore natural mobility that many people lose over time.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Beyond Static Holding

The deep squat isn't just about getting down and staying down. "The thing about doing this is it isn't just about getting down here and staying down here but having the ability to get up from this position too which requires leg strength," Laura explains. This functional movement builds both mobility and strength, supporting everyday movements and potentially reducing injury risk as we age.

Making It Part of Daily Life

You don't need to set aside special time for deep squat practice. "Do a bit of weeding in your garden in this position, do some playtime with your children or grandchildren in this position, watch some TV in this position," Laura suggests. Even short periods throughout the day add up. The key is consistency, not duration—even 10 seconds at a time can help restore this natural movement pattern.

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

The Routine That Worked for Laura

Consistent practice yields results, even if progress seems impossible at first. "The routine that really helped me get better at my deep squat over the years is the Ido Portal squat routine," Laura shares. She incorporated a shortened version into her warm-up routine for years, not realizing how much she had improved until suddenly the position felt comfortable. The transformation happened gradually through consistent practice over nine years.

A Test of Mental Resilience

The squat test challenges your mind as much as your body. "I can't say it's particularly comfortable; my hips feel really tight, my lower back is stretched, and my shins are burning a little bit," Laura admits at the nine-minute mark of her demonstration. Yet she persists, showing that mental fortitude is part of the process. The test builds not just physical capacity but also the ability to sit with discomfort.

Start Where You Are

Everyone's squat journey begins at a different place. Laura encourages readers to try the test regardless of their current ability level. "If you're trying this then I'd love to know how you're doing and how it feels," she says, inviting community participation. Whether you can hold the position for 10 seconds or 10 minutes, the key is starting the process of reclaiming this fundamental movement pattern. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Melanie Abeyta harmony aesthetics
Copyright harmony_aesthetics/Instagram
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

The bad news? There is no such thing as a fountain of youth. The good? There are foods you can eat to improve longevity. “Our skin reflects our overall health, and diet plays a massive role. The combination of the antioxidant effect manifests in improving the cell barrier, increased collagen production, and the enhancement of the natural oils in the skin, reflected in vibrant, youthful, and luminous skin and a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. When skin is unhealthy, these are much more visible,” explainsMelanie Abeyta, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Longevity Coach, and Owner of Harmony Aesthetics Center. She recommends focusing on an anti-inflammatory-based diet with lots of fresh fruit, water, and probiotics, which can help balance your gut, affecting your skin. “Incorporating these foods into your diet should be easy, and a variety of at least four of these foods, if not more, should be eaten daily,” she says.

Almond Milk

Almond milk in glass bottle and jug on beige background. Close up. Healthy vegan eating. Lack of cholesterol.Shutterstock

Almond milk is an excellent source of vitamin E, a known antioxidant. “Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals which can often cause irreversible damage to the skin because it contributes to collagen and elastin depletion,” says Abeyta. Collagen and elastin are essential substances that give the skin elasticity and firmness. “The collagen and elastin supply of the skin is depleted after prolonged exposure to free radicals. As you age, your body cannot replenish the depleted supply; this is the primary cause of wrinkles, fine lines, and other skin blemishes. Vitamin E, present in almond milk, protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals and this makes the skin healthy and younger-looking.”

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Avocado

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“Avocado is great because it contains Vitamins C and E and essential fatty acids that decrease inflammation and redness and improve fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains antioxidants that are important to prevent UV damage and help shed dead skin cells on the skin's surface,” she continues.

Blueberries

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Blueberries are high in Vitamins A and C, which have a high antioxidant content to help protect the skin from sun damage. “Vitamin A is a precursor to retinol and has a strong antioxidant and anti-aging effect,” says Abeyta.

Carrots

Harvesting carrots. Female hand with bunches of carrots with tops.​VegetablesShutterstock

Carrots are not only good for your eyes but are also excellent for smooth skin, says Abeyta. “Carotenoids, found in carrots, are your protection from everyday pollutants and will prevent wrinkles. The beta carotene in carrots is a skin-friendly nutrient converted to vitamin A inside the body and can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. It also helps repair skin tissues while protecting the skin from harmful radiation,” she explains.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Coconut

Glass with fresh coconut water and coconuts on the table.Shutterstock

“Coconut is not only highly nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but it also helps support the natural chemical balance of the skin to help prevent wrinkles and functions as a protective antioxidant,” says Abeyta. “It's also great for hydrating both skin and hair and helps prevent dehydration when taken by mouth, as it contains loads of electrolytes. Coconut also helps control dandruff.”

Cucumber

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Cucumber is a natural anti-inflammatory vegetable that can calm and soothe skin. “Plus, it is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients such as vitamin C and folic acid, which help reduce swelling and puffiness,” she adds. “Vitamin C helps stimulate new cell growth, and folic acid helps fight environmental toxins that can make your skin look tired or age prematurely. When combined, these help your skin look firmer and healthier. Cucumber can also help reduce breakouts as it can help cleanse the skin and tighten pores.”

Green Tea

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Green Tea is high in antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, and has anti-aging benefits that help fight free radicals to protect your skin from environmental stressors that can damage and age it. “It also contains Vitamin A, which is known to help improve the skin’s texture, and Vitamin B, which helps reduce redness. Plus, it has soothing properties and will help brighten the skin,” Abeyta explains.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Nuts

A variety of nuts in wooden bowls.​NutsShutterstock

Nuts such as walnuts and almonds not only help strengthen the skin cell barrier but also the natural oil barrier of the skin, which ultimately helps prevent sun damage. “Because they contain antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats, they will help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and skin pigmentation while improving the overall appearance of the skin,” she explains.

Olive Oil

The moment olive oil is poured into a glass bowl set against a wooden backgroundShutterstock

Olive oil contains four major antioxidants, which allow it to work as a cleanser and moisturizer. “Among these antioxidants are Vitamins A and E. Vitamin E has anti-aging benefits because it helps restore skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles,” Abeyta maintains.

Pumpkin

Cut fresh ripe pumpkin on grey backgroundShutterstock

Pumpkin is loaded with beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. “This converts to Vitamin A which helps prevent wrinkles and keep your skin youthful and moisturized. This is the perfect food if you are experiencing dry skin. Pumpkin is also loaded with Vitamin C, another antioxidant that protects collagen and boosts our immune systems,” says the expert.

Spinach

Fresh spinach leaves in bowl on rustic wooden table. Top view.Shutterstock

Spinach is high in Vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production, and Vitamin A, which is vital for combatting inflammation and promoting cell turnover, which is essential for anti-aging. “Spinach is also rich in beta-carotene, which allows proper moisture retention in the skin to help fight wrinkles while removing dead skin cells for healthier, brighter skin,” Abeyta maintains.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Sweet Potatoes

Organic Asian sweet potatoes holding by hand​Sweet PotatoesShutterstock

“Sweet potatoes contain 200% of the recommended daily value of Vitamin A, which helps promote the growth of new skin cells and increases the rate at which this happens, leaving you with vibrant skin,” says Abeyta. Also, from one sweet potato, you’ll get three grams of fiber, which keeps your digestive tract healthy. “A functioning digestive tract can help keep breakouts to a minimum.”

Tomatoes

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Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A, B, C, K, alpha and beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene. “Lycopene is especially beneficial because it’s a carotenoid with a powerful anti-cancer effect. These are all great antioxidants that help the skin maintain healthy collagen and reduce the risk of skin damage,” she claims.

Turmeric

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“Turmeric has brightening and anti-inflammatory properties, which help with melasma and inflamed acne. It will also help soothe and even out the skin, boost collagen production, and help with hyperpigmentation. Because it contains curcumin, a potent antioxidant, it will help neutralize free radicals that damage skin cells and contribute to aging,” Abeyta tells us. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.