By Dr. Laurie Grisez, ND
In today’s society we hear a lot about “anti-aging”. Numerous supplements, herbal products, facial lotions and more are promoted to make one think, if I buy this I will delay the aging process. This is an interesting concept, because in reality we all know that we cannot stop aging. Which is why in this article, I would like to promote the idea of healthy aging instead of anti-aging. There are many ways to age well and optimally.
Maintaining a regular exercise routine can keep your muscles and bones strong. Living in Central Oregon makes it easy to stay fit by participating in the many outdoor activities that are available. Tetherow Sport offers many fitness classes as well as lap swimming and water aerobics. Balance exercises are also vital in aging well. The following five balance exercises can help prevent falls, reduce injury, and improve coordination. Sit to stand, heel to toe, single leg stand, tree yoga pose, and Tai chi are all excellent options to improve balance.
At any age, nutrition is the foundation for health. Additionally it is never too late to improve eating patterns and intake of healthy foods. A worthy read is The Blue Zones Solution, by Dan Buettner. In the book, he details what the world’s longest-lived people eat, as well as how they live and provides inspiration on ways to make healthy changes in your own life. He details how the diet and lifestyle of centenarians from Ikaria Greece, Okinawa Japan, Sardinia Italy, Loma Linda California, and Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica lead to longer healthier lives.
Having good social connections and community involvement has also been shown to be a key piece in healthy aging. This can look different for everyone but having regular positive interactions with friends/family and a stable network of social connection is important. This can involve sharing meals, physical activities, hobbies, or going to a live music performance or play depending on what brings you personal joy. Regular social interactions stimulates overall health and reduces loneliness.
Preventive health care screening and regular health care check ups are important. Screening for breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, lung, and skin cancers may be appropriate based on your age and family history. Scheduling routine physicals as well as lab work with your physician is the best way to stay healthy. Get your blood pressure checked and if high talk to your doctor about ways to maintain normal levels.
A significant aspect of the “anti-aging” movement is about reducing, removing, and avoiding wrinkles. Wrinkles are caused by a decline in collagen and elastin production as we age. Additionally over time there is a reduction in production of natural skin oils which leads to dryness and weakness in the skin barrier. Staying hydrated is a vital aspect of healthy skin. Additionally include foods rich in Biotin, and Vitamins C and E which are natural collagen boosters,
Aging well is a lifestyle, and a commitment to making healthy choices.
Physicians at Blue Star Clinic are experts in healthy aging, to learn more go to bluestarclinic.com
