If you’re in your 40s, you’ve entered a phase of life that likely brings a new set of demands on your time and energy — like children going off to school or more tasks at work. At the same time, your body may be starting to feel just a bit … different. You may be noticing some stiffness in your joints that you didn’t have before, or perhaps you’re finding certain tasks a little more laborious. 

We get it: It can be a lot to handle, with ever-changing challenges and commitments commanding your time and attention. But taking good care of yourself will help you stay healthy and vibrant, and give you the energy you need to handle all the responsibilities life throws your way.

Read on for seven ways to keep yourself at the top of your to-do list — and in top form — throughout your fourth decade.

What is metabolic syndrome? According to the American Heart Association, it’s a condition that affects around 34% of U.S. adults.¹ Read on to learn the basics of metabolic syndrome and to find out if you might be at risk.  

Metabolic syndrome (also known as Syndrome X) is an increasingly common condition closely linked to inactivity and obesity. It’s not a disease, per se, but rather a group of risk factors that can increase the likelihood of serious problems, like heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and stroke.²

Having just one risk factor for metabolic syndrome doesn’t mean you have metabolic syndrome, but they tend to occur together, putting you at greater risk. Three or more conditions could result in a metabolic syndrome diagnosis.  
 

Swap bread for delicious baked zucchini in this veggie-packed take on a savory tuna melt. All you’ll need are three ingredients: a Jenny Craig Tuna Dill Salad Kit, zucchini and paprika. For a lower-carb take on this dish, omit the crackers. Bake a batch for lunch or dinner and pair it with a fresh salad. Done and done!

If you're following the Jenny Craig program, check with your consultant before making any swaps or changes to your plan to ensure you stay on track!

This International Women’s Day, we’re honoring our founder, Jenny Craig.

Since 1959, Jenny Craig has been helping members change their lives by teaching them how to build a healthy relationship with food. The story begins with Mrs. Craig herself as she struggled with weight loss after the birth of her second child. She was ready to lose weight, but realized she did not have good options to help her reach her goal. Through a combination of diet and exercise, she was able to get back to her pre-baby weight — but realized that there wasn’t much information on the dangers of obesity and lifestyle changes that could help.  

You’re eating out with friends, and the waiter hands you a menu. Suddenly, your eyes glaze over. What should you order at the restaurant that falls in line with your healthy eating goals? 

When dining out, there are seemingly endless options, and it’s hard to know which dishes are healthy and which aren’t. It’s enough to make you dizzy! But usually restaurants will have healthy (or healthy-ish!) choices — it just takes a little sleuthing to find them. 

That’s why it’s so important to know ahead of time what’s a smart order, no matter what eatery you choose — whether it’s an Italian, Mexican or American spot. Follow this guide on how to eat healthy at a variety of restaurants. This way, you can fully enjoy your meal — and your company.
 

Help us pick the Jenny Craig Fan Favorite Dish — take the quiz and vote each week to keep your favorites in the bracket! Plus, enter for your chance to win $500!*