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Get active to lessen age-related problems

So, you think that sitting around doing very little is the way it should be as you age? Wrong!!
A common misconception is that as you get older you should slow down and take it easy. Wrong again.
Move it or lose it people!

Exercise and improving muscle strength has major benefits as you age. These are not just ideas for 20-something aged gym junkies. We all need to move – most of us much more than we do now. Improving muscle strength and general fitness has a direct impact on reducing the incidence of falls, osteoporosis, weight management, cardiovascular health and general wellbeing.

How? Incorporating resistance training and weight-bearing exercises you can help limit the amount of muscle wasting often experienced with ageing, improve your mobility and limit frailty associated with age, in many cases. Weights (even light ones, especially at first), using elastic exercise bands, swimming, walking, dancing and stretching are all beneficial. The social aspect of group exercise has such positive impacts for the mind as well as the body – and is often underrated.

If you haven’t exercised for a long time, it is best to start small and work up – but DO start. A visit to the Dr for a health check and consulting with an exercise professional before starting serious exercise can be a good idea. But ANY movement that you can start is good. Except opening and closing the fridge door often. That may not be a beneficial movement.

It is also important to check your diet. Many people do not get adequate protein as they age and studies have shown that in most cases protein needs increase with age. Adequate fibre is really important for digestive health, blood pressure control, cholesterol levels and inflammation management. Adequate water intake must also be maintained. Control your sugar and refined carbohydrate intake as these can be very inflammatory and linked to many health problems. A wide variety of fruits and veg will ensure you get the nutrients you need. And don’t forget the healthy fats!

It is time to think about ageing disgracefully by getting out and enjoying life. 😊
Go on, get out of that chair and move your body!

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