October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so now is a great time to focus on women’s health, especially those over the age of 50.
50 is the year that many of us take a moment to look back on our lives so far, remembering the good times we have had and the many incredible things we have accomplished. It is also a time when your body begins to change, and if you are looking to age gracefully there are a few different things you can do to continue living the healthy, active lifestyle you love.
Research has shown that men and women age differently, so BEK Medical has put together a list of tips just for women over 50!
Healthy eating is important at every age, and for women over 50 there are a few extra foods you should incorporate into your diet. Osteoporosis and heart disease are both common health conditions that women over 50 face, so boost your daily calcium intake and add more cholesterol-lowering foods like oats and whole grains into your meals. Beans, berries, and leafy greens like spinach and kale are some other health conscious foods that are good for your body and mind.
Find an Exercise Routine You Love
Instead of struggling to get to the gym every day, take some time to find an exercise routine you actually enjoy! Whether you sign up for a class with a friend or decide to take Fido for an hour-long walk every evening, incorporating fun – and healthy – activities into your schedule will be much more beneficial than dragging yourself to the gym once or twice a week.
According to a study performed by Harvard University researchers, burning more than 1,000 calories per week cuts a postmenopausal woman’s chances of developing breast cancer almost in half. Every mile you walk burns 100 calories, making this marker fairly easy to reach every week!
Sleep In
We all know that we should get seven to eight hours of sleep a night, but many of us stay up late and wake up early anyway, pushing our bodies harder than we have to. A good night’s sleep not only makes you more productive during the day, but it also helps to reduce your risk of having a stroke.
A recent study performed by The American Heart Association found that poor sleep in seniors can cause complications in the brain, so make getting seven or eight hours of restful sleep each night a priority, and talk to your doctor if you aren’t sleeping well.
Visit Your Doctor Regularly
On top of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it is important to visit your doctor regularly, scheduling the appropriate health screenings for your age. Womenshealth.gov has an easy-to-read, comprehensive chart you can follow if you aren’t sure what tests you should have performed! Regular screening can help ensure early detection of medical conditions, which in turn increases the likelihood of successful treatment and a longer, healthier life.
50 is just the beginning of a whole new chapter of your life, so embrace your age and enjoy the years to come! From rehab equipment to orthopedic care items, BEK Medical has everything you need to maintain your quality health and freedom as you age. For more information about the products we carry, visit us online or give us a call at 915-599-1129.
