Diets for Every Decade

Defy Your 50s

By age 50, you’re burning 200 fewer calories every day than you did at age 30. This is caused by estrogen loss that occurs during menopause. Unfortunately, your body turns to alternative sources, such as fat cells in the belly, which can produce estrogen. Fat cells grow bigger, resulting in an expanding waistline.

Flaxseed
Women in their 50s need to consume alternative sources of estrogen, like phyto-estrogens, such as flaxseed. Consume 30 grams of flaxseed each day, which equals 2 teaspoons. Be sure to choose ground flaxseed for better absorption.

Sinless Watermelon Split
Split 2 bananas and top with 3 scoops of watermelon. Rich in water-content, watermelon keeps you feeling full and also contains arginine, an amino acid that helps your body naturally burn calories. Add a dollop of yogurt; a study shows that calcium and milk fat may reduce fat absorption from other foods. Top with a cup of blueberries; rich in polyphenols, blueberries help prevent fat tissue from forming in the body.  Sprinkle with low-fat granola, for whole-grain fiber; and dark chocolate chips, which contain caffeine, an appetite suppressant.

Ingredients

• 2 bananas
• 3 scoops of watermelon
• 3 dollops of vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 2 teaspoons ground flaxseed
• Low-fat granola
• Dark chocolate chips

Click here for Dr. Oz's 50s Prevention Guide, and learn what you can do to fight cancer, heart disease, exhaustion and the negative effects of menopause.