As we age, it’s clear that our bodies go through numerous changes. Some are more noticeable and often discussed – like wrinkles or graying hair.
However, there are other surprising shifts that might not make the headlines – but are just as significant in our journey through the years.
Understanding these changes can empower us to take proactive steps in managing our health and maintaining our quality of life.
Let’s dive into four such body changes that might catch you off guard as your body ages.
I’m sharing this guide about the surprising changes you experience as your body ages because I am bestselling wellness author.
I wrote a longevity book called Life is Long. Plus I founded a nutritionist recommended online program called The Stop Emotional Eating Course.
Here are some of the things you might find yourself surprised by as you grow older.
Yes, you might actually get a little shorter as you age. Starting in our 30s, the bones in our spine, known as vertebrae, can begin to lose mineral content, making them less dense and more prone to compression. The discs between these vertebrae, which act as cushions, also lose fluid and flexibility over time.
The result?
On average, people might lose half an inch every decade after age 40, with women generally experiencing this more prominently than men due to osteoporosis.
Why should this matter to you?
As a result, it’s essential to engage in activities that maintain your bone density and strength. For example, you should explore weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, or dancing. Also, consider your calcium and vitamin D intake. Both are heroes when it comes to bone health.
Have you noticed your veins becoming more visible or prominent as you age? This is a common change that occurs for a couple of reasons.
While often a cosmetic concern, prominent veins can sometimes lead to health issues, such as varicose veins, which may be painful and lead to other complications like ulcers or bleeding. Compression stockings and elevating your legs can help if you’re experiencing discomfort.
As we age, our digestive system becomes less efficient. The muscles in the digestive tract can become stiffer and weaker, slowing down the movement of food and causing issues like constipation, acid reflux, and indigestion. Moreover, the production of digestive juices and enzymes decreases, making it harder to break down and absorb nutrients from food. As a result you will find yourself dealing more with everything from indigestion to heartburn.
This can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but you’re not powerless. Increasing your fiber intake, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain digestive health. Regular physical activity also keeps your digestive system moving. Remember, what you eat directly impacts how you feel—choose foods that nurture your body and avoid those that aggravate your digestive system.
Your gums might not be the first thing you think about when considering aging, but they’re crucial to your overall oral health. As you age, your gums naturally recede, which can expose the roots of your teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Additionally, a lifetime of brushing—sometimes too hard—can contribute to gum erosion.
To manage these changes, adopt a gentle brushing technique with a soft-bristled toothbrush and consider using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth if discomfort becomes an issue. Regular dental check-ups are essential; a dentist can monitor your gum health and provide treatments such as fluoride rinses or other therapies to help protect your teeth and gums.
Aging is an inevitable part of life, but being caught off guard by these changes doesn’t have to be. By understanding the less-talked-about transformations, such as the loss of height, more prominent veins, increased digestive problems, and changes to your gums, you can take proactive measures to manage your health effectively.
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