Best Foods for Women Over 40

A woman's 40s can be an unexpectedly turbulent time. You may notice the pounds creeping up as your metabolism begins to slow and a few more aches or pains here and there. And, unfortunately, this is also the time in life when women may experience their first brush with chronic illness—and realize just how important their health will be moving forward. And that means women over 40 need to be even more mindful of what foods they're eating, too.

But your 40s aren't all doom and gloom—they just require a little adjustment. By taking charge of your diet and staying active, your 40s can be one of the best decades there is—a time to celebrate the strides you've already made in your career, family life, friend circle, and whatever else you've been building in your 20s and 30s. This is a great time to practice a little extra self-care, too, beginning with how you nourish your body.

That's why we talked to seven different doctors—including women's health experts, dermatologists, OB/GYNs, urologists, and general practitioners—to bring you the top 40 foods every woman over 40 should be eating, in order to feel and look your absolute best. List of 40 Best Foods are below:

1. Oily Fish
2. Quinoa
3. Grapefruit
4. Peanut Butter
5. Water
6. Lemon Juice
7. Broccoli
8. Dark Leafy Greens
9. Sweet Potatoes
10. Flax Seeds
11. Green Tea
12. Asparagus
13. Avocados
14. Lentils
15. Red Wine
16. Apples
17. Brazil Nuts
18. Oatmeal
19. Olive Oil
20. Eggs
21. Garlic
22. Skinless Chicken
23. Green Beans
24. Chia Seeds
25. Turkey
26. Unprocessed Soy
27. Cottage Cheese
28. Berry Smoothies
29. Whole Grain Pastas and Cereals
30. Organic Meat
31. Sauerkraut
32. Greek Yogurt
33. Dark Chocolate
34. Peas
35. Carrots
36. Bok Choy
37. Wheatgrass
38. Heirloom Tomatoes
39. Walnuts
40. Papayas