As we get older, our bodies break down – it’s natural; inevitable – and worst of all, it can cause apathy (and depression) because our bodies are slowing down, which means a decrease in energy levels. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of tricks, tools, and diets you can add to your routine to increase your energy on a daily basis. Don’t get trapped into the mindset that you need to follow a routine, things need to change to make progress.
Many people get apathetic about exercising because they don’t see progress. Poppycock! If you’re able to do the exact same routine every single day – as a senior – that IS progress. That means you’re building your muscles enough every day to compete with their natural degeneration.
Every day should start with an aerobic exercise as well – and a lemon shot if you want to jumpstart your metabolism. A morning exercise gets your body moving and a simple 30 minute walk can change your day!
Now, depending on your body and metabolism, you may want to eat before you exercise, and if that’s the case, then have a light, protein-rich breakfast (egg and banana pancakes are quick and easy), and then work out. Speaking of protein foods…
Carbohydrates are delicious aren’t they? Burgers with French fries, pasta and garlic bread. Delicious! But not really something you ought to be eating regularly. Not only do these foods take longer to break down and digest, but they produce serotonin – derived from tryptophan or what most of us refer to as “turkey-inducing-coma”.
To not be sleepy all day, consume foods that are high in protein and vitamins – like fish, eggs, and fruits. These will bring your energy levels up instead of slowing you down.
This goes hand-in-hand with what you ought to be eating, but make sure you’re drinking plenty of water too. In fact, one of the most important things you can do is “eat” your water – i.e. eat lots of watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers, etc. Eating foods that have a lot of water in them, help keep you hydrated. Staying hydrated is especially pertinent for seniors on medication since many medications can increase your thirst or give you cottonmouth.
Plus, although you ought to be drinking a lot of water anyway, remember that coffee does NOT dehydrate you. You are still drinking water.
Don’t just sleep, but sleep well. If you’re consistently getting 7-9 hours of sleep (differs between men and women) but waking up groggy or with a headache, then something is wrong. That something may be your mattress, it may be stress, it may be caffeine after noon, or it could be sleep apnea caused from weight gain. You need to figure it out.
Sleep is so critical to actually feeling energized and healthy. It’s how your brain flushes out toxins (and you want to avoid dementia) and it’s when your body heals itself after a hard day of exercising. If you’re not getting proper sleep, figure out the problem and get it resolved.