As we get older, our risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases increases. For men over the age of 50, the foods they eat could play a huge role in reducing this health risk, according to experts consulted by Eat This, Not That!

Toby Amidor, MS, RD, says that men over 50 need to watch out for foods that may increase their risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Here are some of her recommendations of the foods to avoid:

1. Cakes and cookies. These foods are high in empty calories and don't provide adequate nutrition, Amidor says. "If you are going to go for a cookie or cake, then do so on occasion in small amounts," she says.
2. Fried foods. "Fried foods have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and weight gain," says the expert. "This can lead to type 2 diabetes." Try grilling or roasting veggies and chicken instead of frying.
3. Processed meats. Sausages, luncheon meat, and bacon are loaded with artery-clogging saturated fat. This can dangerously elevate cholesterol levels. Amidor suggests trying leaner versions of your favorite processed foods, such as turkey bacon or low-fat varieties, and reducing portion sizes.
4. Breakfast toaster pastries. These foods are "calorie bombs," according to Everyday Health. "It's important to have protein at breakfast," says Leslie Bonci, RDN, a dietitian and sports nutritional consultant for major athletic teams. Have an egg with a slice of whole grain bread instead.
5. Rib-eye steaks. According to experts at Everyday Health, rib-eye steaks are one of the fattiest meats on the planet. A small four-ounce portion contains a whopping 16 grams of fat — much of it saturated. Switch to leaner cuts such as top round or a New York strip steak, the latter of which has less than half the amount of fat than rib-eye.
6. Protein bars. While the word "protein" may make you believe these are healthy snacks, the truth is many of these products are often a disguised candy bar loaded with too many calories and sugar, says Bonci. Check labels and look for bars that are high in protein and contain less than 7 grams of sugar.