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Physical Fitness Exercises

How to protect from infections at the age of 62 and keep physically fit and active?
(15 Jun 2009)

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Physical fitness is essential for good health and is generally ignored as one grows older. It is commendable that you are making an effort to remain fit and healthy. The best way to protect yourself from infections and stay healthy is through diet and exercise.




It is important to understand the role that a person’s diet plays in their overall health. It is important to have a healthy diet but make sure that you focus on foods that help to boost your immune system. Therefore although it is important to include proteins and carbohydrates in your meals it is also important to ensure your daily intake of vitamins and minerals.




It is important to get adequate daily nutrition as not all nutrients can be stored in the body. Vitamin C is one such nutrient that cannot be stored for a very long time in the body and it is essential for good health as it strengthens the body’s immune system and allows you to effectively fight off ailments, illnesses and infection. It is also essential for healing damaged skin, strengthening the muscles and reducing cholesterol levels. Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges and sweet limes are all high in Vitamin C. In addition to these,   strawberries, tomatoes, potatoes and cantaloupes also have significant amounts of Vitamin C. Make sure that you include one or more of these foods in your diet to ensure that you meet your daily Vitamin C requirement.

You should include foods that are rich in Vitamin E as this vitamin has antioxidant properties that help to protect your body from free radical damage. Sprouts, broccoli whole grains and sardines contain significant amounts of vitamin E. There are also several other vitamins like the B vitamins and vitamin K that should be included in your daily diet. Certain minerals too are essential for a healthy immune system. For example, zinc deficiency will increase the risk of infection. This is because zinc helps the development of white blood cells that fight off infection from bacteria and viruses.

One of the best ways to ensure adequate vitamin and mineral intake is to have at least two servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Make sure that you do not stick to one specific type of fruit or vegetable but instead have a fruit bowl or salad with a variety of these foods. As for your daily exercise routine, it would be best to enlist the help of a certified instructor. Yoga and Pilates would be good options as they strengthen the muscles without putting pressure on your joints.
answered by a on 15 Jun 2009, 7:11:26

 

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