(Photo by Cristian Newman on Unsplash)
Article by: Jane Sandwood, Freelance Writer
As you grow older, your body will progressively weaken and become susceptible to many different health problems, ranging from high blood pressure to mobility impairment. As such, it is increasingly important for you to adopt healthy eating and lifestyle habits as you age. Unfortunately, many seniors in the UK are not doing so. According to an article published in AgeUK, more than one million Britons above the age of 65 are either at risk of malnourishment or malnourished. Here is a guide that can help you improve your health and well-being.
Healthy Eating Tips
- Drink More Water: As you age, it is likely that you will feel thirsty less often. However, you should still make a point to drink a minimum of six times every day, or more if the weather is warm or you are exercising. Drinking water is important because it supports many vital functions in your body, including hydration, blood circulation, and digestion.
- Consume Less Salt: Overconsumption of salt can lead to increased risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. You can reduce your salt intake by limiting your consumption of high-salt foods such as cured meats, snacks, and sauces. Also, make a point to select low-salt varieties of foods when shopping and use herbs and spices to flavour your foods instead of salt.
- Limit Intake of Saturated Fats and Trans Fats: Saturated fats and trans fats are detrimental to health, and they are often found in foods such as pastries, pies, fried and battered foods, chips, and chocolate. If you enjoy eating desserts, choose those that are partly nutritious and avoid foods that are high in sugar, saturated fats, and trans fats. Examples of healthier options include fresh fruits, and whole grain-based cakes and crumbles.
- Increase Calcium Consumption: Osteoporosis is a condition that reduces the density of bones, making them more vulnerable to fractures. This condition is commonly experienced by elderly people, but you can control it by consuming enough calcium, vitamin D, and fluoride. Calcium is one of the most essential nutritional needs of seniors, and it can be found in dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yoghurt.
(Photo by Isidor Emanuel on Unsplash)
Healthy Lifestyle
Being physically active is one of the best ways to stay healthy during old age. It can improve your energy levels, heart health, bone strength, respiratory system, immune system, and overall well-being. To get enough exercise, you can try walking, jogging, playing sports, or following an exercise program. Yoga can also be very beneficial to your health, as it can enhance your blood circulation, reduce stress, and boost your mental health. It is also important that you get enough sleep every day and go for regular medical checkups to keep track of your health.
(Photo by: Naori)
For an elderly person, relaxation is not only a form of enjoyment, but also a necessity to a certain extent. So, pamper yourself with a visit to a spa or wellness centre every now and then. This can help reduce stress and rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit. There are many different services available in a wellness centre, including facial, massage, physical therapy, and yoga lessons. Some of these services provide therapeutic healing and pain relief, and they can make you feel more refreshed, energised, and younger.
(Deep Tissue Massage at Chi Yu)
Staying healthy as an elderly person can be challenging. However, if you have enough discipline and perseverance to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, you will be able to live a happier and longer life.