Tips for More Energy, Better Mood With Age

With aging comes wisdom, perspective, and yes, changes that may sap your energy. Even if you’re not dancing quite as fast as you once did, there are ways you can keep that bounce in your step.

Focus on:

• Diet
• Exercise
• Sleep

Manage Your Menu

If you’ve been eating the same things for a while, take a fresh look at what’s on your plate.

The right types of food can raise your energy and make you feel better.

As you age, your body’s ability to turn food into energy slows down. As a result, many put on weight. Still, you can help yourself stay fit and energetic.

Sugar levels play a big role. Some experts say “low-glycemic” foods, like beans, non-starchy veggies, nuts, and whole-grain products, can help keep your blood sugar in balance.

“High-glycemic” foods, like white rice, white bread, and sugar-sweetened drinks, can cause fast spikes in your blood sugar. You may feel a brief energy jolt, but when the dip comes, you may feel more drained than before.

Quantity Matters, Too

Too few calories can leave your body starved for energy. Too many can make you gain weight, which can make you feel sluggish.

How much you should eat each day depends on several things, especially how active you are.

Talk to your doctor or a dietitian about how many calories you need.

Get Moving

You may notice you’re working out less than you were when you were younger. Perhaps training for 5Ks has given way to after-dinner strolls.

The more active you are, the more energetic you’ll feel. Exercise and physical activity are great ways to help your mood, too. If you have issues that stop you from doing the things you once enjoyed, feel free to get creative.

If arthritis in your knees keeps you from running or playing basketball, swimming or cycling might work for you.

You shouldn’t stop moving as you get older. Just move in a different way. Look for fitness programs at local senior centers or find a partner so you can motivate each other. If you have trouble finding time to be active, maybe a workout first thing in the morning, before you do anything else, can do the trick. Just make sure you eat some breakfast first.

Talk to your doctor before you begin a new routine.