How to Prevent 5 Common Age-Related Conditions
Close to 95% of adults have at least one chronic disease. As you age, your body undergoes numerous changes that can increase the risk of various health conditions. However, you can prevent many age-related diseases by making healthy lifestyle choices.
Make Monarque Health & Wellness your partner in healthy aging. We help you implement comprehensive strategies to maintain optimal health as you age. Here are five common age-related conditions and how you can prevent them.
Heart disease
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among older adults, but you have effective ways to lower your risk. Life’s Essential 8™ encompasses eight steps to drastically reduce your chances of developing heart disease:
- Eat better
- Move your body
- Manage weight
- Control cholesterol
- Manage blood sugar
- Manage blood pressure
- Quit tobacco
- Get healthy sleep
Life’s Essential 8 not only protects against heart disease, it can slow cell aging and the risk of dying. Monarque Health & Wellness works closely with you to make heart-healthy changes, including weight loss, nutrition counseling, comprehensive screenings, and more.
Osteoporosis
Your body undergoes a number of changes as you age, of course, and some changes are expected. However, weak bones (osteoporosis) aren’t an inevitable part of aging: You can take steps to reduce your risk.
Having osteoporosis heightens your risk of fractures, especially in your hips, spine, and wrists. To keep your bones strong, it’s crucial to consume enough calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients are crucial for building and maintaining bones.
You may be among people who need to supplement their diet to ensure that you’re getting enough of both.
Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, and resistance training, are just as important for keeping your bones strong. Monarque Health & Wellness provides regular bone density screenings to help detect early signs of bone loss.
After menopause, women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis due to the loss of estrogen, which protects bones. Women who have no contraindications may want to consider hormone therapy, which we can discuss if you’re interested.
Cognitive decline
Preventing cognitive decline involves keeping your brain active and engaged. Mental exercises, such as puzzles, reading, and learning new skills, can stimulate brain function. Social interaction is equally important.
A diet that is rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other brain-healthy nutrients can support cognitive health. Regular physical activity also promotes blood flow to the brain and reduces the risk of cognitive decline.
Managing stress through mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can further protect your brain health.
Arthritis
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is a common age-related condition that causes joint pain and stiffness. While there isn’t a surefire way to prevent arthritis, some risk factors, such as your weight, are within your control.
Regular exercise, including low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, and walking, keeps joints flexible and muscles strong. Strength training supports joint health by building up the muscles around them.
Additionally, avoiding repetitive strain and protecting joints from injury can also prevent arthritis.
When it comes to diet, foods such as fatty fish, nuts, and fruits can reduce inflammation.
Type 2 diabetes
While Type 2 diabetes is common, it’s far more so after the age of 45, but some lifestyle modifications can cut your chances of developing it. Focus on eating a balanced diet with plenty of fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while limiting refined carbohydrates and added sugars.
Regular exercise is also important in promoting healthy blood sugar. Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps control blood glucose levels. Getting screened regularly can detect blood sugar issues early, so you can implement more aggressive changes if need be.
With the right strategies, you can enjoy a healthier, more vibrant life as you age. Contact us at Monarque Health & Wellness to schedule a consultation to create a personalized plan tailored to your needs and goals.