10 tips for ageing better
1.
Watch what you eat and drink This may seem obvious but having a balanced diet is important for good health, energy and disease prevention.
An ideal diet should be low in saturated fat, high in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish and small amounts of low-fat dairy and lean meat.
Remember to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration which can make you feel tired and confused.
Tea, coffee and fruit juice will also help you stay hydrated but avoid sugary soft drinks.
If you drink alcohol, abstain from alcohol for at least two days a week to give your liver time to recover from the effects of alcohol and do not exceed the recommended daily alcohol limit.
2.
Dental care Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.
Flossing helps prevent gum disease by removing food particles and plaque between teeth.
If allowed to build up, you may experience pain or bleeding in your gums, and gum disease may also be linked to diabetes, stroke, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
Get regular checkups and if you have dentures or bridges, ask your dentist to check that they fit properly.
3.
Stay active Daily exercise helps you stay healthy.
This will reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even cancer.
If that's not enough, staying active can boost your self-esteem, improve your sleep, and give you more energy.
Government guidelines recommend that older adults do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, along with strengthening exercises twice per week.
If this seems like a lot to you, start small and as you get stronger you will be able to reach this amount.
4.
Get the maximum benefit from your doctor You should have routine tests at your doctor's office to check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
High values increase risk factors for stroke and heart disease, but all problems can be completely corrected with medication.
In the meantime, why don't you ask your doctor about the seasonal flu vaccine?
It's free once you turn 65 or if you have a health condition that puts you at risk of more serious problems if you get the flu.
5.
Store vitamins Many people have vitamin D deficiency without even knowing it.
In fact, it is estimated to affect half of the adult population.
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to cognitive decline, bone problems and cardiovascular disease.
Try getting out in the sun for at least 15 to 20 minutes a day to get a boost of vitamin D.
This vitamin can also be found in foods like eggs and oily fish.
You can also talk to your doctor about vitamin D supplements.
6.
Taking care of your feet Take care of your feet by applying moisturizer to prevent dry skin and cutting your toenails straight.
Make sure you have shoes that fit well and support your feet.
If they hurt, you may want to wear slippers, but a pair of sneakers may be a good choice because they provide more support.
Contact your doctor if your feet are painful, if you are very hot or cold, or if you have common problems such as corns, bunions, or ingrown toenails 7.
Manage your sleep friend Many of us have difficulty falling – or staying – asleep as we get older.
This can make you tired and affect your mood.
Avoid insomnia by reducing nap time during the day, establishing a bedtime routine, and going to bed at the same time every night.
Try drinking a warm drink like chamomile tea or warm milk before bed.
Read our more detailed tips on how to get one
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