Healthful Aging Depends on Current Daily Habits

When it comes to healthful aging, a preventive approach is the key to success. By implementing some simple healthy habits today, we can achieve a healthier future. “Our bodies’ health – particularly as we age – requires that we take precautionary measures to strengthen ourselves,” explains Donnica L. Moore, MD, women’s health expert and advocate, host of DrDonnica.com, and Editor-in-Chief of Women’s Health for Life (DK 2009). Consider her tips for healthful aging as part of an improved wellness plan.

• Sleep Smart: Sleep not only helps revive the body, but also the mind. Research shows that skimping on sleep can have serious effects such as an increased risk of developing memory loss, cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Getting enough rest encourages a positive mood, healthy weight and better skin elasticity. If falling asleep is challenging, try lighting a soothing lavender candle or lowering the room temperature to help cool the body’s core temperature to a comfortable sleeping level.



• Lather Up: Warm weather entices many people outdoors, but sun safety is essential. Aside from same-day dangers, like sunburn and heat exhaustion, overexposure to the sun can cause premature aging and, in some cases, skin cancer. To safely enjoy the summer season, apply—and reapply—an oil-free, anti-aging sun block every day for skin that is properly moisturized and protected from damaging UVA and UVB rays. Also, remember to wear a hat and sunglasses to help protect the scalp and eyes.



• Shield Your Smile: The health of your smile is influenced by daily dental health routines, as well as dietary factors. Enamel loss can occur when acids from everyday food and beverages, such as fruit, yogurt, salsa, orange juice and sports drinks, attack the tooth surface. If left untreated, the result can be irreversible enamel loss, which can lead to larger issues such as cavities, sensitivity, veneers, dentures and even oral surgery. New Crest Pro-Health Enamel Shield toothpaste contains the active ingredient stannous fluoride, which binds to enamel to create a micro-thin shield against acid attack. It protects all these areas dentists check most: cavities, gingivitis, plaque, sensitivity, tartar, fresh breath and whitening.



• Exercise and Energize: People who exercise frequently not only look better, but they feel better too. The short-term effects of exercise include better stress management and increased energy. Long-term benefits include easier weight control, stronger bones and muscles and a decreased risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. Consider tennis, golf, yoga and walking as these activities can be catered to any fitness level and age.

Aging is unavoidable, but the transition can be made easier—and healthier—by implementing a few small daily habits that have positive effects on the body and overall wellness.

For more information on strategies for staying healthy, click here.

For more information on dental health, click here.

Created: 7/4/2009  -  Donnica Moore, M.D.