Diet, exercise, social health, smoking and alcohol use all contribute to our overall health. It’s never too late to make critical changes that can have a profound effect on your health and well-being. Optimal aging is about long-term considerations and not quick fixes. Here are our top five tips, supported by research evidence, to support your healthy aging goals.
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Exercise more and sit less: Movement is medicine. We spend too much time being sedentary and this can increase our risk of many health complications including heart problems, type 2 diabetes, depression and even cancer. Evidence shows that regular exercise is a key component of optimal aging.
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Eat healthy: A nutritious, well-balanced diet is important to our health and well-being throughout our lifespan and helps us maintain strength, mobility and a good quality of life. Think about reducing your salt intake, incorporating more fish and/or fish oil supplements, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables, and try cutting down on processed foods.
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Get social: Social connections play an important role in healthy aging. Loneliness and social isolation can be very detrimental to your health. Try joining a social group or a recreational walking club. And remember, regular visits with our elderly loved ones are very important.
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If you smoke, quit: The negative effects of smoking on healthy aging are well documented. It’s never too late to reap the benefits of quitting, some of which occur within the first few days!
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Limit your alcohol intake: Drinking too much can make health problems worse. And be aware of how your medications may react with alcohol. It’s important to consume alcohol in moderation.
