Soda

Staying away from soda at any age is a no-brainer, but the so-called “liquid candy” is an even bigger hazard when you’re dealing with abnormal blood sugar levels, a common problem for the 50+ crowd.  Soda can send your blood sugars soaring, increasing your risk for type 2 diabetes and promoting inflammation to boot.  Studies also show that a high-sugar diet is linked to having unhealthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are major risk factors for heart disease.  (Side note: The empty calories from soda won’t fill you up like solid food will.)  If you love bubbly beverages, swap the soda for naturally flavored seltzer, and add a splash of 100% fruit juice if it needs a flavor boost.