Introduction
As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to health issues and our dietary needs change. Eating the wrong foods can have serious consequences for our health, so it is important to be aware of what we should and should not be eating. Physicians recommend that after the age of 60, there are certain foods that should be avoided in order to maintain good health. This article will discuss the foods that should be avoided after the age of 60, as well as some healthier alternatives. We will also discuss why these foods should be avoided and how they can affect our health. By following these guidelines, we can ensure that we are eating the right foods to keep our bodies healthy and strong.
After 60, Never Do These Things, Say Physicians
As you age, your body changes and so do the things you should and shouldn’t do. Physicians have identified certain activities that should be avoided after the age of 60. Here are some of the things you should never do after you turn 60.
Avoid High-Impact Exercise
High-impact exercises such as running, jumping, and aerobics can be hard on your joints and bones. As you age, your bones become more brittle and prone to injury. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and yoga are better options for seniors.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking is bad for your health at any age, but it’s especially dangerous for seniors. Smoking increases your risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer. If you’re a smoker, it’s never too late to quit.
Eat This, Not That
Eating a healthy diet is important for seniors. Avoid processed and sugary foods, and opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Eating a balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for seniors. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, confusion, and other health problems. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid sugary drinks such as soda and juice.
Get Regular Checkups
Seniors should get regular checkups with their doctor. This will help your doctor monitor your health and catch any potential problems early. Make sure to keep up with your vaccinations and screenings, and talk to your doctor about any health concerns you may have.
Our 60s can be filled with many great and healthy years, but it takes discipline and effort to live a quality life. We can help determine the length of our lifespan by cutting out bad habits and practicing positive choices and Eat This, Not That! Health spoke with experts who reveal their tips for living a long healthy life. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Dr. Jacob Hascalovici MD, PhD, Clearing Chief Medical Officer tells us, “Bodies and minds are often so tough and resilient. There is only so much they can take though, so it becomes increasingly important to take care of them as we age. Though “being healthy” is often portrayed as a set of ‘Don’ts,” practicing good health is often a matter of swapping more supportive, vibrant habits for ones that may be dragging you down. If any of the habits below are true for you and you’re heading into your 60s and beyond, think about how you could taper off that habit and put another, healthier one in its place.”
Dr. Hascalovici says, “Smoking may be your chosen way to relax or just a deeply ingrained habit…it’s also deadly. It increases the risks of many chronic conditions and can make it harder for you to heal from any injuries, which only gets harder to deal with as you get older. As soon as you stop or slow down smoking, the body starts recuperating. What could you do to relax instead?”
Dr. Hascalovici explains, “Sitting kills! It can lead to more problems with your heart health, to lost muscle mass, to weaker bones, to weight gain, and to mood disorders. Though it feels as though it should be relaxing, sitting around or being sedentary actually hurts us a lot. It deprives us of natural mood-lifting hormones and weakens our bodies. The answer is to move more. How might that look for you?”
Dr. Hascalovici explains, “Among all the poor food decisions it’s possible to make, sugar is pretty high on the list. It’s compelling, attractive, and, sadly, nutritionally empty. With time, sugar can lead to poor moods, to diabetes, and to poor health overall. A little bit goes a long way (and should be enjoyed…but only in moderation!) Sugary sodas, many alcoholic beverages, and even some juices should be avoided. What could you drink instead?”
Barbara Bergin, M.D. Retired Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon says, “Deep Squats are something someone over 60 should avoid. As we age, the meniscus and surface cartilages in our knees begin to wear out and weaken. They cannot withstand the kinds of pressures they could tolerate when we were young. Squatting puts tremendous pressure on the knee, and often can be responsible for tearing the meniscus and shearing articular cartilage right off the surface of our knees. This can lead to the beginning of arthritis. The exercise industry is currently invested in people doing all sorts of squats, to the benefit of…orthopedic surgeons. After 60, try something else: walking, straight leg raises, swimming, cycling.”
Heather Newgen