By: Marianne Smith-Edge Date: 3/4/10
Note: This week the International Food Information Council Foundation is officially kicking off its Healthy Aging initiative, one of our top priorities for 2010. As the Baby Boomer generation ages gracefully while also sometimes caring for their own families, the Foundation is dedicated to raising awareness of anything people can do to age healthfully. Over the next year and beyond we'll be producing a variety of helpful information for consumers as well as looking to partner with other organizations to better reach this key population.
Living Well, living longer…a philosophy that we can all agree upon, especially for those of us in the Boomer generation! As Boomers, we have changed the landscape along the way due to our sheer volume and health care is no exception! Despite our “forever young” attitude, the reality is…if we do want to live well during our 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and beyond, our attention to lifestyle is a must.
Research shows that individuals who exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet and don’t smoke have a 50 percent lower rate of disability than those who don’t. And we know, that lifestyle is a major factor in the occurrence of at least 70% of all chronic diseases. So why wait? Regardless of our genetic make up, we can make a difference in our personal lives just as we have in the world around us
Begin Taking Steps Now
Where to start? Get moving! The benefits of routine physical activity outweigh the lure of the couch or the desire to drive everywhere when you look at the facts. Benefits include being able to sleep better, improved heart and lung function, and keeping our blood glucose levels within normal range. It is also well documented that being physically active keeps us flexible and helps maintain our balance and muscle tone. To achieve these results, start with at least 30 minutes daily of at least 10 minutes intervals each 3 to 5 times per week for aerobic exercise ( walking, dancing, running) plus 2 times weekly for weight-bearing activity ( stair climbing, using weights). Increasing physical activity in your daily life can be as easy as walking up the stairs rather than taking an elevator and parking farther away from the grocery store.
And be sure to balance your activity with good eating habits. By increasing your fruits and vegetables in your diet, you are consuming those wonderful food components called antioxidants. Research now shows that antioxidants may help slow the rate of aging, keep our minds sharp and help prevent some cancers and heart disease.
So, remember living well and living longer may be as simple as putting on your shoes and walking to your nearest grocery store or farmer’s market for those age defying fruits and vegetables!