Healthy Ageing

The majority of clients who come and see me with the aim of “healthy ageing” are female, although it most definitely concerns both genders and I would love to see more men in my consultations.

The number of people over 75 in the UK today is one in 12, and this is estimated to rise to one in 7 by 2040 with a third of children born today expected to live to 100.

There are many different factors determining the ageing process, including genetics, socioeconomics and lifestyle – with genes contributing just 30% and a huge 70% being down to lifestyle factors!

Whilst the body composition and the energy requirements change as we get older, the fact that 70% of the factors contributing to the ageing process are down to lifestyle means we have got the power to influence this.

There is however not just one factor that makes us age, but a combination of factors including inhaling and absorbing free radicals, environmental toxins, inflammation, lack of sleep, lack of exercise, stress, too much (or not enough) sun, and an unhealthy or imbalanced diet.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines Healthy Ageing as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age”. Functional ability is about having the capabilities that enable all people to be and do what they have reason to value, including: a person’s ability to meet their basic needs; to learn, grow and make decisions; to be mobile; to build and maintain relationships; and to contribute to society

I also love the following quote, and I think this is very suitable as we get older:

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

Nutrition plays a big role in the ageing process, and it’s never too late to start eating healthily. A healthy diet also doesn’t have to be boring or expensive, and you won’t have to completely give up the less healthy things you enjoy – it’s all about balance!

Exercise is also an important factor in the healthy ageing process, as well as oral health, sleep, and not smoking.

Studies say that underweight in the elderly is more dangerous than moderate overweight. Some elderly people find themselves in a vicious cycle with little or no regular physical activity leading to reduced muscle mass, reduced metabolic rate, reduced food intake and decreased micronutrient intake, which then leads to malnutrition and lack of energy.

We live longer than ever before, and ensuring that we can be active and healthy for as long as possible starts a long time before we consider ourselves “old”.

If you want us to look at how nutrition can support your healthy ageing process and help you enjoy a healthy, active live in old age then book a consultation with me now.

You can find lots of information on the website but if you have any further questions or want to find out whether Nutritional Therapy is for you then let’s get a free 15 minute chat booked in. Alternatively you can go ahead and book the 1:1 consultation package. 

Please fill in the “request an appointment” form on this page and then we can get you started on your journey to optimum health with Abhyasa Nutritional Therapy.