Launch a Healthy Lifestyle at Any Age

It's wonderful to feel energetic as you get older. There's so much to do - hobbies, sports, travel - that you are probably on the go more than ever before. How can you keep up?

It's simple: Stay active and eat a healthy diet. And the good news is, it's never too late to benefit from a healthy lifestyle.

Fit for Life
Beginning at age 65, the benefits of exercise increase because you are at higher risk for chronic health problems that stem from inactivity and poor diet. While the more strenuous the activity, the greater the benefits, any type of activity offers rewards. For example, just walking for 30 minutes five or more times a week is beneficial.

The rewards of being active are well-documented, yet according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 50 percent of adults in the U.S. are not active enough to benefit their health. And 26 percent of all adults - up to 44 percent of people older than age 75 - are completely inactive.

People who aren't getting at least some exercise on most days of the week are missing out on important health benefits, including:

• Reduced risk of developing many chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, diabetes, obesity, stroke and hypertension
• Improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
• Fewer symptoms of arthritis, lung disease and other chronic illnesses
• Better muscle strength and balance, which can help prevent falls

Exercise offers many rewards, but before you start any activity or exercise plan, be sure to talk to your doctor.

The Power of Food
Just as with exercise, it's never too late to start eating healthy foods. Studies have shown that a healthy diet can lower the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis and certain types of cancer. Fruits and vegetables contain naturally occurring substances called phytochemicals and antioxidants, which may help prevent cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hypertension. Experts recommend eating a variety of whole foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, which are found in whole wheat bread and brown rice.

The CDC recommends eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day, yet only about 25 percent of adults in the U.S. eat the recommended number of servings. Your doctor or a registered dietitian can suggest healthy meals that taste great. Work with your doctor to launch a healthier lifestyle - today!