Awoman’s 40scan be an unexpectedly turbulent time.

But your 40s aren’t all doom and gloomthey just require alittle adjustment.

And speaking of, here are the25 Best Foods for Menopause.

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Quinoa

Dr. Sherry Ross, orDr.

Looking for ways to add more quinoa to your diet?

Check out these34 Quinoa Recipes for Weight Loss.

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They’re also widely considered a useful tool for maintaining an active metabolism as you age.

New York-based dermatological surgeonDr.

Janet Prystowsky, MD, recommends eating peanuts andpeanut butterif you’re a woman over 40.

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“There is evidence to suggest that heavy consumption of animal-based proteins will increase your cancer risk.”

“It should be light yellow.

Dark yellow or orange is hyper-concentrated.

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Clear means you’re drinking more than you need and you’re basically just passing water at that point.

But light yellow means you’re adequately hydrated and your body is getting what it needs.”

Shaw explains it’s a simple addition, but the benefits for women over 40 can be major.

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Get into the habit now for optimal kidney health!

Broccoli

Broccoliis a superfood with a whole host of benefits for your health.

And while broccoli is one food you should eat more of, here are13 Foods Women Should Never Eat.

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They also help skin stand up to UV damage," she explains.

And it’s not just your skin that stands to benefit.

The amount of fiber in flax is significant, helping with regularity, too.

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Omega-3 fatty acids also help fight heart disease, inflammation, and cancer.

They are truly a superfood."

That’s why Soni recommends green tea as an addition to your daily routine.

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“Green tea has plenty of antioxidants which can help protect us from free radicals,” he explains.

Well, here are the7 Health Benefits of Drinking Green Tea.

As we age, this hormonal disruption affects how our bowels function."

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Because of this, she explains, bloating and swelling are not unusual for women over 40.

That’s great news, consideringone in eight womenwill battlebreast cancerin her lifetime.

And FYI, this is exactlyWhat Happens When You Drink a Glass of Wine Every Night.

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The effect on the patient?

Abdominal discomfort and constipation.

Brazil Nuts

High on Soni’s list of healthy foods for women over 40 are nuts.

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And all too often, the knee-jerk reaction is to cut out all carbs in response.

“Olive oil is antioxidant, probiotic, and good for your gut.”

By then, it’s difficult to reverse the effects.

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Need another reason to whip up your morning omelet?

And here are20 More Reasons Eggs Could Be Your Secret Weight Loss Weapon!

Garlic

It’s a good thing you could toss a pinch ofgarlicinto just about any savory meal.

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“This is a natural occurrence, as our metabolism-charging muscles begin to waste away after 30.

“We obtain essential vitamins and minerals through our dietespecially through fruits and vegetables.”

That’s great news, considering thatcolorectal cancersare the second leading cause of cancer-related death in America.

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Unprocessed Soy

Soy has been at the center of nutritional controversy for some time.

Butstudies suggestthat those same isoflavones actually slow the growth of breast cancer cells when women consume soy in moderation.

In its natural form, it’s a good tool for dietary prevention of breast cancer.”

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So what should you stay away from?

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is known for being an excellent, low-fat source of protein and calcium.

Berry Smoothies

Berriesespecially dark berries like blackberries and blueberriesare some of the best anti-aging snacks around.

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They’re packed with flavonols and anthocyanins, which help protect your cells and ward off disease.

They’re also full of antioxidants, whichstudies showcan help slow the aging process.

If berries aren’t already a part of your regular diet, it’s time to fire up theblender.

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The trick is just to buy the right kind, and eat it in moderation.

And here are21 Things That Happen to Your Body When You Stop Eating Processed Foodfor more inspiration.

Sauerkraut not your thing?

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Shaw recommendsGreek yogurtas a great source of calcium, noting that it’s also high in protein.

But before you hit the sweets aisle, verify you’re making the right selection.

Just check that you’re not eating of these7 Worst Dark Chocolates for Weight Loss!

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Peas

Your mom always told you to eat your peasand per usual, your mom was right.

“Eating high-fiber peas can also reduce your risk of colon cancer.”

Quite a feat for such a tiny vegetable!

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Carrots

Looking for a great way to keep your skin healthy and beautiful past 40?

According to Bailey,carrotsare your best betand the number one food she recommends to her patients.

This warm beta carotene skin tone has been scientifically proven to be more attractive than a sun tan."

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Wheatgrass

Looking for a healthy way to start your day?

Not feeling the flavor?

of eating truly great tomatoes.

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Dr. Sherry points out that tomatoes have superior anti-inflammatory properties due to their high content of the antioxidant lycopene.

Walnuts

Need a new, go-to snack for a quick energy boost?

Walnuts offer a high-protein option that you’re free to easily take with you on the go.

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Papayas

Papayas have a little-known secret weapon when it comes to women’s health.

This comes in particularly handy in our 40s, as cycles can become erratic in anticipation of menopause.

Enough said, right?

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Pass the papayaand these 39 other foods women over 40 need to be eating.

Chia seeds

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Carved roasted turkey

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unprocessed soybeans

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Cottage cheese with peaches

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Berry smoothie

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whole grains pasta cereal bread

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assortment of organic meats

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Sauerkraut

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Dark chocolate

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Peas with pods

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bok choy

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Heirloom tomatoes

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Walnuts

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Papaya cut in half

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