As you age, most people feel a noticeable shift in their stamina and overall energy levels. It’s considered an anomaly when you are younger but at a later stage of life it is dismissed as a by-product of ageing instead of a symptom that needs to be addressed. Yes, you do feel less energetic as you age but having an imbalance in nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle can accelerate the onset of ageing. However, if you take care of your health with the right nutrition and an active lifestyle, it can go a long way in keeping you moving and healthy. It enables you to continue to enjoy simple everyday things like cycling, playing hide & seek with your kids, or brisk walking.
The significance of fitness and nutrition
Research and reports on health and nutrition confirm that people who adopt a healthy diet and exercise regularly, stay healthy longer.
As we age, we may experience some shifts in our general sense of well-being. Gradual muscle loss and weakening of the immune system can be the cause of some of these subtle shifts. 'Sarcopenia,' also known as age-related muscle loss, begins after the age of 30 and reduces about 3-5% of muscle mass every decade, worsening up to 8% by the age of 40. Sarcopenia can start with symptoms like falling, feeling weak, slow walking speed, difficulty rising from a chair or weight loss etc.
In addition to muscle loss, aging also reduces the body's immunity. The ability of your immune cells to protect you against external forces (pathogens, viruses, bacteria) and internal malignant cells(cancer) wane as you age. Adequate consumption of foods with macronutrients such as proteins, and micronutrients such as Vitamin C and zinc can help keep your muscles health and your immunity as your cross various age milestones