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If you’re over 40 and aiming to lower your body fat percentage, prioritizing fat loss while preserving muscle mass is essential. Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a certified sports dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, emphasizes the need for a healthy diet paired with strength training and sufficient protein consumption. “These foods are nutrient-rich, high in protein or fiber, and play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar and satiety, which are vital for sustaining lean mass during fat loss,” she notes.
Eggs
The first food that Collingwood advises incorporating into your diet is eggs. “They are packed with complete protein and leucine, an amino acid that triggers muscle protein synthesis,” she explains. “Their high satiety value keeps you feeling fuller for longer, which can be beneficial in lowering your overall calorie consumption.”
Skinless Chicken Breast (or Turkey Breast)
What’s next on the list? Skinless chicken breast or turkey breast. “These are sources of lean, high-quality animal protein with minimal fat,” she says. “They provide the essential amino acids your body requires to maintain muscle while cutting calories.”
Salmon
Salmon, “or other fatty fish like sardines or mackerel,” is also great for fat loss. “Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids that support fat metabolism and reduce inflammation,” Collingwood says. “Omega-3s may improve muscle retention during weight loss, especially in older adults.”
Leafy Greens
She also encourages eating leafy greens, “like spinach, kale, Swiss chard,” she says. “Very low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in magnesium, which is important for muscle function. Helps you feel full without adding excess calories.”
Lentils and Other Legumes
Make sure to load your plate with lentils and other legumes. “High in plant protein, fiber, and slow-digesting carbs,” she says. “Good for muscle repair and also keeps insulin stable to support fat burning.”
Greek Yogurt
Greek Yogurt (plain, non-fat or low-fat) are amazing sources or protein with little fat. “High in casein and whey protein, both excellent for muscle maintenance,” Collingwood says. “Supports gut health (with probiotics), helps control hunger, and can double as a high-protein snack.”
Berries
Berries, including blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, are great for burning fat. “Low in calories, high in fiber and antioxidants, which may support metabolic health,” says Collingwood. “Satisfy sweet cravings without spiking blood sugar.”
Also, Do These Things
To preserve muscle while losing fat, Collingwood recommends also doing these things:
Protein target: ~1.4-1.8 grams per kg of body weight per day.
Strength training: 3–5x/week to maintain or build lean mass.
Avoid crash diets: Aim for a modest calorie deficit (~300–500 kcal/day) to spare muscle.
