5 Best Ways To Boost Your Health As A Senior!
If you’re a senior, there is no time like the present to start improving your health.
Whether you are looking for prevention or treatment of illnesses, it will take some changes in lifestyle and dietary habits to see results. If you need help getting started with healthy living, here are five simple ways seniors can boost their health.
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Why is good health so important?
The good news is that most of the chronic conditions that seniors experience, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and arthritis, are largely preventable. Good health means having enough energy to do the things you enjoy, being able to socialize with friends and family, and being able to live independently.
1. Eat a nutrient-rich diet
Eating well can keep your mind sharp, give you plenty of energy, improve your immune system and decrease your risk for many chronic diseases. Focus on eating whole grains, lean protein sources, fruits, and vegetables of all colors to get the most nutritional benefits out of every meal. Eating limited amounts of red meat is recommended. Be sure to cut back or eliminate processed meats from your diet. You can also improve nutrition with supplements if needed
2. Keep active
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that seniors get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise (walking briskly). More strenuous activity (jogging) is even better when possible. However, don’t overdo it – start slow and gradually increase your activity level to avoid injury.
3. Drink plenty of fluids
Drinking enough fluids helps keep your body functioning properly, prevents dehydration, and can even help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Aim to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day (64 ounces). If you don’t like the taste of plain water, add lemon or cucumber slices for flavor and added nutrients. Other fluids such as unsweetened tea, coffee, milk, and 100% fruit juice also count towards your daily intake.
4. Control stress
Chronic stress can have harmful effects on both mind and body, so it’s important to find ways to manage it. Techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help to lower stress levels over time. If needed, consult with a therapist or counselor who can help you develop other stress-relieving methods.
5. Get enough sleep
One of the best ways to improve your health is simply to get enough sleep. Most seniors need between 7 and 8 hours of good quality sleep per night. If you’re having trouble falling or staying asleep, talk to your doctor about possible solutions.
6. Quit smoking
Smoking is not only bad for your lungs, it’s also bad for your heart and increases your risk for many types of cancer. If you’re a smoker, quitting is the single best thing you can do for your health. There are many methods to help you quit, so find one that works for you and stick with it.
7. Manage chronic conditions
If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, it’s important to manage it effectively. This may require making some changes in your lifestyle, taking medication as prescribed, and following your doctor’s instructions closely.
Keep Healthy For A Long Time!
The bottom line is that good health is within your reach, no matter your age.
Seniors are often told to make small changes in their diet, exercise, and stress-management habits. If you’re looking for prevention or treatment of illnesses, it will take some changes in lifestyle and dietary habits to see results. The bottom line is that good health is within your reach no matter your age!
