What to expect from your body in your 50s
Aging affects each of us in unique ways. As you journey through life, you will notice both small and big changes in your physical and mental health. Taking proactive steps to stay mentally and physically active can help us maintain a more youthful state, especially in our 50s when we may begin to observe the initial signs of shifts in metabolism and skin health.
Skin
You may start losing muscle, bone, and fat beneath your skin. This can make fine lines and wrinkles look more noticeable. Applying creams that contain retinol and using products with antioxidants and glycolic acid can help repair them by making your skin cells renew faster. These make your skin thicker and help produce more collagen, making your fine lines and wrinkles look better.
Eyesight
As you enter your 50s, changes in your eyesight may become more noticeable. The lenses in your eyes become stiffer with age, making it harder to focus on objects up close. You may also experience increased sensitivity to glare and a decrease in night vision due to the lenses losing their clarity. Another common issue that arises is dry eyes, which become more prevalent.
High blood pressure
As you get older, your blood vessels become less flexible, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. However, there are factors you can control to prevent or manage it. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, finding effective ways to cope with stress, reducing your salt intake, and following a healthy diet can help.
Metabolism
When you are in your 50s, your body's metabolism changes, which can affect how your digestive system works. One change is that your stomach takes longer to empty, which can cause problems like reflux. Another change is that food moves slower through your large intestine, which can lead to constipation. Eat fiber-rich foods and drink enough water to help keep your digestion smooth.
Joints
As you age and become less active, you may experience achy joints. This happens because the cartilage in your joints wears down, the fluid that lubricates your joints decreases, and your muscles become weaker. These factors can lead to discomfort and stiffness in your joints. Maintaining a healthy weight is important, as excess weight can put extra pressure on your joints.
