How To Keep In Shape... After Fifty... And Beyond

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How To Keep In Shape... After Fifty... And Beyond
Middle age is the time when hormones change and metabolism
slows down. Added to this, ailments like arthritis and
joint problems start to creep up on us. These factors and
more tend to drive us into a less active lifestyle.
Menopause and postmenopausal symptoms also beset us at this
age. Even men can experience midlife crisis. These factors
can lead to depression and obsessions with eating. This
leads to the proverbial "middle age spread."

Given these factors it is more important than ever to keep
in shape after 50. However your regime will be a little
different than someone in their 20's. Firstly you may have
any or all of the above problems and more, which will
definitely force you into a less rigorous exercise routine.

Underlying ailments like arthritis can leave you with
stiffness and pain. You will need to gradually ease into a
routine rather than starting a vigorous regime. It is very
necessary to slowly work up a routine rather than straining
your body right at the start.

Your goals should be to gradually strengthen and bring more
use into arthritic joints. The more you do this the better
you will be. You will not make ailments like arthritis
completely go away, but will make the condition much better
with regular exercises. Even a brisk daily walk for a few
miles will help you.

Exercise is a great remedy for depression. Actual physical
exercise can help to alleviate depression, as well as
making you look and feel better. When you exercise on a
regular basis you will not only take your mind off being
depressed but will give you a new purpose in life which
will help you feel better both physically and mentally.

Diet changes: Metabolism slows down considerably in middle
life and beyond, making it important to reduce
carbohydrates and increase fiber and protein into your
diet. You will find you need less food so train yourself to
eat less. Try to be extra careful not to indulge in too
many sweet or fatty foods, as these are harder to digest
and are big weight gainers.

Try to eat less refined foods and more whole grain foods as
your digestive system is not as strong at this age and you
will need more fiber to help your digestive system work
well. More fiber in your diet will help you eat less, as
you will feel fuller with less food. Try to eat more fruits
and vegetables, as you need more vitamins and minerals at
this age. Calcium especially gets depleted and you may
consider taking some supplements.

Try to keep yourself busy with hobbies and social
gatherings to avoid getting obsessed by food. Do not let
advanced years get the better of you. Just because you are
in your middle years does not mean you have one foot in the
grave. Remember you are only as old as you feel. So get
into a regular routine of exercise even if it is just a
good brisk daily walk plus try to be careful with your diet
and you can enjoy a long full life, despite your advancing
years.

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Article by Andrew Jamaz, on behalf of
http://www.refresharticles.com/articles/exercise/
Check out our "Exercise and Keep Fit" category of quality
articles.

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