Article by Yesenia Alvarado, Nutrition Intern
While maintaining a well-balanced diet is essential for good health, engaging in physical activity and living an active lifestyle is also imperative for overall good health. Getting the proper exercise is important for people of all ages. However, it is especially necessary for seniors to keep their bodies moving! As we age, not only do our bodies begin to slow down but so do our energy levels and other aspects of our health. Exercise is a healthy habit to acquire and will bring forth prosperous benefits for the individual.
For seniors in particular, it is important to encompass these 4 specific types of exercises: strength training, endurance exercises, flexibility exercises, and balance exercises. These exercises will improve overall coordination and strength, which in turn will help maintain or lose weight, reduce the risks of illness and/or disease and may also help reduce the risk of falling.
When we think of exercise, we usually focus on the physical benefits that we gain from it. While being physically fit is necessary to keep ourselves healthy, being mentally fit is just as important if not more. Exercise boosts energy levels and helps keep the brain active. Giving our brain some exercise allows it to sharpen its skills and to our benefit, can lessen memory loss and any form of cognitive decline (i.e, Alzheimer’s disease). The endorphins that are released during exercise send off ‘feel good’ signals to the body and in return allows for the individual to actually feel better and have a boost in mood!
Whether you’re already in good shape or don’t usually engage in any exercise activities, it is never too late to start. Physical activity is a great asset to living a healthy, well-balanced life!
Be sure to consult your doctor first, when selecting an exercise program.
To learn more about exercise and get some tips please visit: http://www.helpguide.org/life/senior_fitness_sports.htm
Placement of Food Facts determine whether you will read them, according to a new study. Set aside a few extra minutes to locate and really read through the content of the Nutrition Facts label placed on the foods you are purchasing. It is likely that you will have second thoughts about some of the foods you are placing in your pantry!
