Never Do This Over 50, Say Health Experts
There's no denying it, our bodies will experience changes as we age. While we can't do anything about getting older, we can prevent many health issues by having an active and healthy lifestyle. Turning the big 5-0 doesn't have to be scary, but it is a time when bad habits really take their toll. Dr. Seema Bonney, the founder and medical director of the Anti-Aging & Longevity Center of Philadelphia explains, "There are several changes that will gradually begin to happen after 50. The metabolism slows, in general we need 200 less calories a day after 50. Collagen production slows, collagen is essential for skin, joint and ligament health. Skin becomes thinner and thus more fragile which may result in dryness, be sure to hydrate often. Hormonal changes – menopause and andropause which brings on array of symptoms which vary from person to person. Bone density decreases, generally more for women as estrogen dips. Hair may start thinning as we age due to lower levels of collagen. These are just some of the changes that we may notice as we age. However, we can take action to help slow the process of aging and improve vitality, performance and health, by implementing healthy habits that support longevity." Eat This, Not That! Health spoke with experts who reveal eight things to stop doing over 50 now to stay healthy. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs COVID is Hurting You—Even After a Negative Test.
Not Wearing Sunglasses
Dr. Viraj Shah OD, VSP Network Eye Doctor states, "Too much exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can accelerate the aging process, damage the eyes, resulting in blurred vision, light sensitivity, and more. It's crucial to wear sunglasses that offer 100 percent protection from UVA and UVB rays that protect your vision and the delicate skin around your eyes. Make sure you go to a reputable source like your eye doctor where you can be confident the sunglasses you're getting will properly protect your eyes."
Not Getting Enough Sleep
"Smoking, not getting enough sleep or eating unhealthy food can often lead to higher chances of developing vision and other serious health issues," Dr. Shah explains. "It can also trigger allergies, puffiness, and dark under-eye circles. Your eye doctor can recommend lifestyle changes you can make to keep your eyes healthy for years to come."
Avoiding Your Annual Checkups
Dr. Bonney says anyone over 50 should immediately stop, "Not getting regular preventative checkups, lab work and screenings. Additionally, these checkups should include a review of your lifestyle, your sleep, stress management, nutrition and exercise habits. Knowledge of your personal biometrics and micronutrient levels coupled with a proactive lifestyle change can make a profound impact on optimizing your health and longevity."
Not Moving Enough
According to Dr. Bonney, "We lose muscle mass as we age and our metabolism decreases. Find ways to move daily, aim for 10,000 steps, engage in regular strength training at least 2 x a week and 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise. Daily exercise can also improve brain health."
Don't Have a Poor Diet that Lacks Nutrients
"Food is medicine," Dr. Bonney states. "A diet rich in plants will provide you with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to help prevent chronic disease and inflammation. Lean protein is essential to help build and preserve muscle mass, which is important for an active lifestyle, injury prevention and a strong metabolism. Be sure to get adequate fiber from your diet. Fiber supports heart health, blood sugar stabilization, digestion and satiety."
Drinking Too Much
Dr. Susan Landers, MD states, "Alcohol abuse disorder sneaks up on overworked, overwhelmed professionals. We use alcohol to unwind, relax, and be sociable, but if amounts increase over the years as our tolerance grows, we can expect to see weight gain, loss of balance, and liver changes, just to name a few."
Stop Doing Things We Love
Dr. Landers says don't, "Avoid hobbies and ways to practice mindfulness. Hobbies allow us to tune out from work and tune in to our subconscious mind. One of my favorites was needlework. Piano playing worked well, too. Creativity and good ideas come from that kind of spontaneous right brain thinking."
Don't Burn Out!
"Avoiding any (your) personal signs of burnout" is a big mistake, especially after 50, says Dr. Landers. "Overwork and unmanaged occupational stress lead to burnout, manifested as physical and emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and lack of self-efficacy. Partial burnout syndrome (one or two of the three components) may occur and each needs a different treatment, different attention." And to live your healthiest life, don't miss this life-saving advice I'm a Doctor and Here's the #1 Sign You Have Cancer.
