We all want to live long and experience the joy of seeing our great-grandchildren, but what we never prepare for is age-related illnesses. As the human body ages, its immunity levels fall and we become more prone to various illnesses. You might notice more cases of cardiovascular diseases and cancer in aged people compared to the younger generation. Although there is nothing much we can do about our age, there is always something we can do about our health. The following are five tips on how to avoid age-related illnesses.
1. Eat Healthy
What we eat has a great impact on our general health. You should take five daily portions of vegetables and fruits because these offer ingredients that reduce the risk of various cancers. You also need to avoid taking a lot of saturated fat. Take more cereals and wholegrain bread, and avoid red and processed meat. The other thing you should avoid is vitamin supplements because they do not offer much if any, protection against illnesses.
2. Always Keep your Weight in Check by Exercising
Once you have maintained a healthy diet, the next thing is to keep your body in shape by doing regular exercise. Consistent exercise protects you from heart-related illnesses and other diseases such as diabetes. Besides cardiovascular diseases, regular exercise is also essential in preventing breast and bowel cancer. You do not have to engage in rigorous training because too much activity might do more harm than good to an aging person. Just half an hour of exercise is enough to keep your weight optimal and your body in shape.
3. Avoid Alcoholic Drinks
Taking alcohol exposes you to more than seven types of cancers. While most people may argue that drinking in moderation is not bad, a recent study shows that taking a glass of wine on a daily basis increases the risk of a woman having breast cancer. This shows that the more you drink the more you are exposing yourself to different types of cancers.
Studies have also indicated that alcohol raises the risk of cardiovascular diseases. If you have to drink, then do in moderation (one or two units daily).
4. Always follow your Doctor’s Prescriptions
It is good to always visit your doctor in time for a regular checkup and whenever you fill sick. The earlier you visit the hospital the earlier the problem can be detected, especially if you are more advanced in age. Most of the cases of cancer and heart-related problems are due to late detection. Given that old persons are more prone to such illnesses, it is always good to follow your doctor’s guidelines. If you are on medication, always ensure that you complete your dosage even if your body is feeling healthy.
5. Avoid Smoking
Just like alcohol, smoking exposes you to the risk of various cancers and heart-related diseases. The most common illness in smokers is lung cancer, but smoking can also cause cervical and mouth cancer. Smoking is also known to damage arteries, hence leading to poor functioning of the heart.
If you are unable to quit smoking, using e-cigs (electronic cigarettes) is recommended for you. You can visit Liquido24 to learn more about e-cigs.
By Ella Maclin
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