How Do Carbohydrates Affect My Health Over Age 50?

It has been established by the main scientific boards all over the world that carbohydrates, one of the three principal macro nutrients in a diet (the other two are fats and proteins), should represent 55 to 65 % of the total daily calories ingested. Carbohydrates are the main source of fuel for the body, they provide energy through glucose, the final compound that is obtained from the carbohydrate metabolism.  These carbohydrates are processed in different ways depending on the type of carbohydrate consumed. In addition, they have a different impact on your metabolism according to your age, menopause or premenopausal status, and body mass index.

It is noted that when you eat processed carbohydrates instead of unprocessed carbohydrates they are rapidly absorbed by the digestive system and because of the small size of the particles and the lack of fiber this causes a blood glucose surge which over-stimulates an important hormone insulin. This insulin spike triggers biochemical signals which are perceived as hunger. High insulin levels can be associated with an increased central body fat which is a risk of cardiovascular disease. This can be prevented by eating carbohydrates in their unprocessed whole form, the fiber contained will allow a progressive absorption of glucose and a gradual increase of insulin, providing the necessary fuel for the cells.

Menopause is associated with significant changes in insulin metabolism, and insulin resistance is prevalent in healthy postmenopausal women. The menopause transition that occurs around the age of 50, is associated with an increase in abdominal and visceral adipose tissue accumulation. These results appear to be independent of the aging process and total body fatness. This visceral adipose tissue(connective tissue where fat is stored) accumulation is one of the manifestations of an altered insulin metabolism and as a result, the body handles poorly the carbohydrates of the diet, especially the processed carbohydrates or added sugars.

In addition to menopause, there is an age-related reduction in insulin sensitivity, in both sexes. This reduction results in a deficient carbohydrate metabolism with the age.  Researchers have determined that these age-related reductions in insulin sensitivity are likely due to an age-related increase in obesity rather than a consequence of advanced chronological age.

The consumption of carbohydrates, specifically processed ones and added sugars affect health at any age.  At over age fifty, the body processes carbohydrates differently, it is important to be aware of this, and consume a proper diet, and exercise to preserve your health over the age of 50.

Please follow and like us: