It's time to get into balance and go with the flow. Blood flow that is! Recent research, published in the May issue of the Neurology Journal,http://www.neurology.org/ suggests that focusing on improving your blood pressure will also help with your balance and rescue your bones.
Scientists studied a group of seniors 65+ over a two year period who were given reaching exercises combined with a 20 minute walking test. At the end of the study the scientists found that adults who had less blood flow to the brain were more prone to a slower gait and more susceptible to falls.
One of the key killers for older people is losing their balance and breaking a hip. It is primarily due to weak bones and/or osteoporosis. Women are the most prone to breaking hips as are caucasians, slightly build and those who aren't physically active. A broken hip can only repaired by surgery and the mortality rate due to surgery is 25% plus there are many complications that can follow surgery including pheumonia or infection. It is risky business for sure.
Osteoporosis, a condition that causes loss of bone mass can also be prevented with weight bearing exercises such as walking, climbing, aerobics or bicycling. In addition to a regular fitness regimen after 50 years old women are encouraged to augment their diets with calcium rich foods such as yogurt, milk and cheese. There are wonderful calcium mineral supplements like boniva and Viactiv. Calcium in conjunction with Vitamin D is the best combination.
What does this mean? Well we gotta get moving! A brisk 20 minute walk every day, work up to 60 minutes plus a series of 20 minute pilates or yoga can keep you on point.
No comments:
Post a Comment