Many older men struggle with energy loss and maintaining their physique. Though it requires more effort as you age, you can still be just as active and healthy as younger men. Here are five health tips for men to follow as they approach their 60s and beyond.
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
It may seem cliché, but you indeed are what you eat. You can expect low energy if you’re fueling your body with low-quality foods. You also won’t look or feel your best when you indulge in many processed or sugary foods. You may have gotten away with late-night pizza binges when you were younger, but your body won’t adapt as quickly to these food choices as you grow older.
To ensure optimal health in your senior years, one of the most important health tips for men is to eat a high-quality diet. To function well, your body needs plenty of veggies, fruits, proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Aim to get all these nutrients in your daily meals to keep your energy levels high and boost your immune function.
2. Don’t Smoke
Smoking isn’t as trendy now as it used to be, but plenty of people still do it. If you smoke regularly or occasionally, it’s time to make a change for your health. Smoking is detrimental to your health, no matter how old you are. But as you enter your senior years, that pack of cigarettes will inflict even more damage on your lungs. Elder Care Alliance recommends that you stop smoking to protect your health as you age.
3. Stay Physically Active
Physical activity is essential for optimal health as you age. It can also help you avoid losing muscle mass as you age. Additionally, physical activity may help reduce the risk of dementia and other aging-related diseases. One of the top health tips for men is to make time each week for cardiovascular and strength-training workouts. Start out slowly if you have not been physically active for a while. You may also want your doctor to clear you for vigorous physical exercise before you begin.
4. Get Sufficient Sleep
Sleep is so crucial for physical, mental and emotional health. One of men’s most important health tips is getting at least seven hours of quality sleep each night. If you struggle to fall or stay asleep, talk to your doctor about melatonin or other sleep medications that may help you. Avoid drinking caffeine after noon and put electronics away for at least an hour before bedtime. These habits will help your body naturally wind down and prepare for a night of rest.
5. Get Routine Examinations
As you age, your risk of various health issues and diseases increases. Regular screenings and examinations improve your likelihood of identifying such problems early so you can receive treatment immediately.
With a little effort, you can still maintain a high quality of life into your senior years. Follow these health tips for men to stay healthy and happy as they age.