Staying Healthy Over 40

Our wisdom and compassion often increase as we grow older, but so do our health challenges. More than 90% of older adults have at least one chronic condition, and more than 75% have more than one. Plus, these figures are even higher for women than for men.

Natural changes like menopause and your family medical history play a part, but a healthy lifestyle can help you stay as strong and independent as possible in the years ahead. It’s not something many of us like to think about, but we are all getting older and the sooner you start taking care of your health, the better the result will be.

Take a look at these tips to help you maintain your health as you get older.

Dealing with Menopause:

• Stay cool. Hot flashes can make you uncomfortable and disrupt your sleep. Reduce them by limiting triggers like alcohol and caffeine. Dress in layers and keep a fan next to your bed.

• Manage stress. Stress can aggravate hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause. Meditate daily and try to keep a positive mindset.

• Lose weight. Your muscles shrink and your metabolism slows down as you age. The distribution of your body fat changes too, so more of those pounds wind up around your waist, increasing your risk for heart conditions and diabetes. Fight back by eating less and exercising more.

• Talk with your doctor. Your doctor can tell you whether you’re a good candidate for hormone replacement therapy or other treatments. Share your concerns and questions.

Staying Physically Fit:

• Condition your heart. You’re about 5 times more likely to have heart disease after you turn 40. Aerobic exercise, along with a diet high in fibre and low in unhealthy fats, can help your heart stay strong.

• Build your muscles. Slow down muscle loss, and thicken your bones with strength training. Lift weights or try movements that use your own bodyweight for resistance, like planks and pushups.

• Increase your balance. Avoid falls by becoming steadier on your feet. Practice yoga or just stand on one foot while you're talking on the phone.

• Ask a trainer. Do you already have stiff hips or a sore back? Some professional trainers specialize in corrective fitness that will target the areas you need to limber up.

IMPORTANT: always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise regime.

Staying informed and making healthy lifestyle choices can help you prevent and manage many of the conditions that come with ageing. If you're a woman over 40, start now to maximize your chances of staying mentally sharp and physically fit in your golden years.

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