Live Longer AND Live Well Longer

There is a misconception out there that our health has improved because we are living longer. If you look at the statistics for Canada in 1970 the average lifespan was almost 73 years and as of 2019, that number has risen to 80 years for males and 84 years for females. But the question must be asked, are we living WELL longer? Do you want to just live into your 80’s or do you want to live an active vibrant life well into your 80’s and beyond?

One strategy to help support an energized and vibrant later life is exploring nutrition. We need to support our body with healthy natural foods that are nutrient-rich. As we age, we need fewer calories but more nutrients. This means picking specific foods that fit this criterion.

One of the most prevalent changes that occur as we mature is a reduction in stomach acid. When stomach acid is low it becomes more difficult to breakdown and digest proteins. One of the number one issues of aging is the loss of muscle mass and subsequently loss of bone mass which can be a direct result of a lack of protein. Without enough stomach acid nutrients like vitamin B12, calcium, iron, and magnesium are harder to absorb. As well as affecting bone health a lack of these nutrients can affect metabolism, energy levels, skin, mood and more!

Another major issue many people face as they age is an increase in inflammation. This inflammation might show up as aches and pains of the muscles and joints, it might show up as cardiovascular issues and high cholesterol. Any form of inflammation is a sign that your body is needing support. The right nutrition can make a BIG difference!

Gut and bowel issues are other signs and symptoms you should not ignore. We don’t often talk about these private matters, but this can tell you about your microbiome. There are billions of microbes living in your intestinal system and the healthy “gut bugs” help you digest food and ensure you absorb nutrients. They also make neurotransmitters like serotonin which helps you think happy thoughts and they support your immune system, so you catch fewer viruses!

We want to eat foods that stimulate the stomach and ensure we are able to get enough protein. Foods that are not inflammatory, so we have fewer aches and pains. As well as foods that build up the microbiome of the body. That’s all well and good but how do we do this? What foods are important to eat, and which should we avoid? Come back next week for some details on what specific foods you can add to help you age with grace and vigor!

Do you want to know right now? Are you aging faster than you would like? Are you worried about what your health will look like in five to ten years if you don’t make some changes? Next week I will share some specific foods but if you are hungry to know more now then let’s chat about how holistic nutrition consulting and health coaching can help you make your own healthy changes so that you can feel your best every single day. I can provide recipes, meal and snack ideas and support changes to transform your health! Schedule an initial complimentary consultation with me today—or pass this offer on to someone you care about! Visit www.noshoesnutrition.com and sign up for a FREE consultation.  I work with people from all over the world individually or in groups so don’t let anything hold you back!