Turning 40 is a significant milestone in anyone’s life. At this age, you’re likely noticing changes in your body, especially in terms of your metabolism and digestion.

As such, it’s important to be mindful of the foods and beverages you consume in order to maintain your health and energy levels. Here are 30 foods and beverages to avoid after turning 40, along with some pictures to help you identify them.

1. Sugary Beverages

Sodas, sweet teas, and other sugary drinks can wreak havoc on your blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain. Opt for water or unsweetened tea instead.

2. Fried Foods

Fried foods, especially those that are deep-fried, are high in unhealthy fats that can increase your risk of heart disease. Choose baked or grilled options instead.

3. Processed Meats

Processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meats can be high in sodium and preservatives that are linked to an increased risk of certain cancers. Limit your intake of these foods and choose leaner cuts of meat like chicken or turkey.

4. White Bread

White bread and other refined grains can spike your blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain. Choose whole grain options instead.

5. Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can be detrimental to your liver and contribute to weight gain. Moderation is key, so limit your intake to one drink per day.

6. Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are processed meats that are high in sodium and preservatives. Limit your intake and choose leaner options like chicken or turkey sausage.

7. Ice Cream

Ice cream is high in sugar and unhealthy fats that can contribute to weight gain. Opt for frozen yogurt or fruit sorbet instead.

8. Canned Soup

Canned soups are often high in sodium and preservatives. Look for low-sodium options or make your own soup from scratch.

9. White Rice

White rice and other refined grains can spike your blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain. Choose whole grain options like brown rice or quinoa instead.

10. Pizza

Pizza is often high in unhealthy fats and sodium. Opt for a thin crust with fresh veggies instead of meat toppings.

11. Candy

Candy is high in sugar that can contribute to weight gain and tooth decay. Opt for fresh fruit or dark chocolate instead.

12. Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are high in caffeine and sugar that can negatively impact your health and energy levels. Choose water or herbal tea instead.

13. Potato Chips

Potato chips and other snack foods are high in unhealthy fats and sodium. Choose fresh veggies or air-popped popcorn instead.

14. Margarine

Margarine is often high in unhealthy trans fats that can increase your risk of heart disease. Opt for butter or olive oil instead.

15. White Pasta

White pasta and other refined grains can spike your blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain. Choose whole grain options like whole wheat pasta instead.

16. Fast Food

Fast food is often high in unhealthy fats and sodium. Choose healthier options like salads or grilled chicken sandwiches instead.

17. Bacon

Bacon is a processed meat that’s high in sodium and unhealthy fats. Limit your intake and choose leaner options like turkey bacon instead.

18. Soda Water

Soda water is often high in added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Opt for plain water or infused water instead.

19. Sausage

Sausage is a processed meat that’s high in sodium and unhealthy fats. Opt for leaner options like chicken or turkey sausage instead.

20. White Sugar

White sugar is high in empty calories and contributes to weight gain. Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead.

21. Cheese

Cheese is high in unhealthy fats and sodium. Opt for low-fat or reduced-sodium options.

22. White Potatoes

White potatoes are high in carbs that can spike your blood sugar levels. Opt for sweet potatoes or other root vegetables instead.

23. Pastries

Pastries and other baked goods are high in sugar and unhealthy fats that can contribute to weight gain. Opt for fresh fruit or whole grain crackers instead.

24. Breakfast Cereals

Many breakfast cereals are high in added sugar and preservatives. Look for low-sugar options or make your own granola from scratch.

25. Red Meat

Red meat is high in saturated fats that can increase your risk of heart disease. Limit your intake and choose leaner cuts of meat.

26. Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is high in unhealthy fats that can contribute to weight gain. Opt for mustard or hummus instead.

27. Corn Syrup

Corn syrup is a refined sugar that’s often added to processed foods and drinks. Opt for natural sweeteners or avoid foods with added sugars altogether.

28. Canned Fruit

Canned fruit is often packed in sugary syrup that can contribute to weight gain and spike your blood sugar levels. Opt for fresh or frozen fruit instead.

29. Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is often high in sodium that can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues. Look for low-sodium options or use it sparingly.