40 is a big milestone in life for many people. It is after forty that the risk of many illnesses increases. Even though it is impossible to stop one from dying it is very much possible to delay it and still live a fruitful and happy life. But you know it as well as anyone that some habits need to change and some news needs to be incorporated for all of it to have an effect on your health. Here are a few tips to help you on the road to a healthy life after you hit 40.

• Vision Loss

It is around this time that many people experience problems with their vision. A good preliminary test is to see if you can read the fine print on small bottles that you could read earlier. But for a more comprehensive test, get your eyes checked out. Also, wear sunglasses more, as sun exposure can increase the risk of cataracts. (Make sure the sunglasses have UV-A [and] UV-B protection.) Try a diet with a lot of fruits and vegetables which are high in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. This helps to slow down the onset of vision loss.

• Thyroid Disease

It is around 40 that risk of thyroid disease creeps up. Anyone who feels a lack of energy all the time, is gaining weight very easily, and whose hair and skin have their ‘life’ should get a thyroid check done. The small gland in the neck controls energy levels and regulates hormone levels. Get it checked and make sure everything is working fine. Though thyroid diseases are genetic, they can be controlled with medication if detected.

• No Smoking

If you are a smoker, this is the time to consider quitting seriously. Repeated usage can lead to death through illnesses like heart disease, strokes, kidney failure, etc. It is hard to quit, but if you want to live into your retirement, then you need to find a way to quit.

• More Fiber

After 40, your body’s metabolism slows down, so eating fewer calories boosts overall health. But your body should still receive an adequate amount of fibers and liquids to maintain normal functioning.

• Put On Some Muscle

After 40 your body loses 1% of its muscle mass every year. Experts say that even small amounts of resistance training during your forties can have a lot of impact on overall balance and strength later on in old age. So, it is very beneficial to incorporate weight training exercises with some cardiovascular exercises to stay healthy and lean. It will also help you reduce the chance of fat that might replace your muscles as you age.

• Explore your family history

Many crippling diseases come from genes, so it is crucial that you stay one step ahead and know about them before they manifest to either reduce their effects or eliminate them altogether. Many diseases like cancer and hardening of arteries can be cured if caught early enough. Always get tested now and then to make sure you are in the best form possible.

Everyone feels anxious at some point in their life, and the struggle of fighting anxiety can be traumatising. In order to get your life under your control, you need to know how to handle your fears. Fighting anxiety can make you more stressful and depressed. It is such a terrible feeling when your memory gets foggy and when your heart starts to pound. If you happen to be battling anxiety, you can follow the below tips to get back on your feet and lead a normal and happy life.

Take a break:

When your mind is clogged with so many things, you will not be able to think clearly. Your mind will be flooded with fear and not decisions can be made. You can get frustrated and feel very uncomfortable. During such times, you need to take a small break and give your brain some rest. Stop thinking about anything and talk a walk in the garden or have a small drink which will make you feel relaxed. When you have a clear mind, you will be able to make wise decisions.

Sometimes all you can do is just breathe:

When situations around seem impossible to handle and when your life might be sinking all you got to do is take a moment and breathe. As you breathe, keep reminding yourself that you will not always feel this way and your troubles will vanish. When you take a moment and breathe, your heart which was beating very fast will start to relax and be at a normal pace.

Face your fears:

Fear can cripple people. It consumes us and leaves us heart-broken and scared. When you avoid your fear, you are only going to make things worse. Try to face your fears; we know that it is not as easy as it sounds but you can always give it a try and see how strong you become.

Do not over-think everything:

Sometimes over thinking can harm you more than you can imagine. Especially when you are battling anxiety, you need to stop over-thinking everything. Live in the present and live one day at a time. When you wake up in the morning, don’t be worried about what will happen to you in the next month or the next year. Try to focus on that day and try your best to be happy and joyful even when everything around you is sinking sand.

Everyone has problems:

Do not be upset and think that only you are filled with problems all the time. Life is not meant to be easy, and you will face difficulties. Is it the same for everyone, and it is up to the individual to meet his/her problem and solve the problems they are facing?

Next time your mind gets clogged and when your palms get sweaty, pause for a moment and tell yourself that you are strong and that bold enough to face anything that might come your way.