Keeping Healthy In Your Later Years

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At any age, at any point in your life, it is indisputable that exercise and nutrition are vital in order to remain physically and mentally healthy. Though physical activity and smarter eating habits may be easier earlier in life for some, a healthier lifestyle is attainable for anybody with the drive and dedication necessary to pursue it. 

In order for older adults to better their overall health through exercise and healthier dieting, a variety of factors need to be considered and a meticulous plan needs to be set in order to maximize the possibility for beneficial results and minimize the chance of injury or other detrimental effects resulting from overexertion and undernutrition.

DIETING

When it comes to healthier eating habits, major shifts in behavior are not necessary in order for progress to be made, and though aging can have detrimental impacts on metabolism, appetite, and digestion, there are numerous dietary methods able to combat and remedy such changes. 

One highly beneficial change concerns a decrease in sugar, processed and high-fat foods such as candy, breakfast cereals and red meat. In excess, these foods create a surplus of fat and cholesterol in the body and can contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, heart disease and fatigue. 

By consuming low-sugar, low-fat, high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables and lean meat like chicken and fish, you have the potential to increase your heart health, boost your metabolism, and improve your cognitive abilities. The MEDITERRANEAN DIET offers an excellent structure for this kind of diet, emphasizing which foods to prioritize and which to consume at a minimum. 

EXERCISING

Exercising in your later years, while complicated, can still be remarkably rewarding and beneficial to your health. Before developing a workout plan, it is advisable to check first with your physician to develop a comprehensive list of physical conditions and factors to consider so as to avoid injury or other ailments while exercising.

Once this is done, even a 15 to 20-minute walk can have fruitful results. For a more comprehensive, full-body workout, a balance between endurance (walking, jogging, biking), strength (weightlifting, resistance band stretches, pushups/situps) and balance (stretching, yoga, tai-chi) is recommended. 

A regular regiment of these exercises performed throughout the week can result in lowered blood pressure, increased stamina, improved heart health and even a longer lifespan. 

MISCELLANEOUS

If regular exercise and a healthier diet are unsustainable, there is no need for worry. Any change for the sake of improved health conditions has the potential to be paramount in regards to a happier life. Such changes include:

  • Limiting or cutting out cigarette/alcohol consumption.

  • Getting a minimum of nine hours of sleep each night.

  • Engaging in activities meant to improve spiritual/psychological health.

  • Venturing out and interacting with the world (traveling, hiking, etc). 

No matter your age, a happier life through dieting and exercise is possible and worth the effort. For more information on how to become a healthier, more satisfied you, further information can be found at familydoctor and HelpGuide

Tucker Shuff