Although the risk of disease and disability increases with age, poor health does not have to take over your later years. Many chronic diseases can be avoided through preventive measures. The secret to aging well is to establish a healthy lifestyle early and stick to it as you grow older.
Proper nutrition is vital to maintaining good health. Follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and fiber, and reduce fat and sugar intake. Improving your diet could extend your life span and reduce the occurrence of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
Being active is also important for health and longevity. Regular physical activity reduces your risk of dying from heart disease, and decreases your risk for colon cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure. Regular exercise also offers the following health benefits:
- Controlling weight
- Contributing to healthy bones, muscles and joints
- Relieving the pain of arthritis
- Reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Decreasing the need for hospitalizations, physician visits and medications
Exercise does not need to be strenuous to be beneficial. People of all ages will benefit from moderate physical activity like taking a walk or swimming. People tend to be less active as they age. Fortunately, people who are normally sedentary and have lost muscle mass can gain it back by increasing strength with moderate physical activity.
Use the calendar template below to track your health, Have a good health!
