Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Healthy Living in Your 60s, 70s and Beyond

Due to healthy living, many people live years beyond what their grandparents, or even their parents, might have dreamed. Challenge yourself as you age to improve your health and have a meaningful impact on those around you.
Health First
In order to live a long live, you must plan ahead. Even if you are blessed with good genetics, genes alone won't do the job for you. In order to live long, you must eat well, visit your physician on a regular basis, and exercise regularly.
Know the ins and outs of health nutrition. Eat a low fat diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Temper your desire sugar. If you smoke, quit, and keep your alcoholic drinks to a minimum. Plan your meals with your family's history in mind. For example, if your family tends towards high blood pressure, ditch the salt or use salt substitutes. In addition, read the labels on canned or frozen foods to check to see the sodium, as well as fat, contents per serving.
Get regular checkups. While visiting your physician may not be the first on your "desired activities" list, seeing your physician will help you nip potentially serious illnesses before the illnesses become truly serious.
Keep on exercising within the dictates of what your body will allow. If you aren't exercising now, start. While you may not be able to run a mile in "xyz" time anymore, you can certainly walk to keep your body healthy, take a bike ride or go swimming.
Beyond Physical Health
Your mental health is as important as your physical health. Regardless of whether you are 35 years old or 90, your mind has to be exercised as well as your body. Take stock of yourself. Have you always wanted to take a class on painting? Now is the time. What strengths do you have? Volunteer to help others develop similar strengths. Spend time with friends and family and enjoy yourself.

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