Seniors: 5 Ways to Boost Your Energy Levels

seniors

Lace up your hiking shoes. Pack some water and food. And hike rim to rim and back through the Grand Canyon. Sure, maybe in your younger days when you were full of youthful energy...right?

Here’s the thing. Dale Sanders, also known as the Grey-Beard Adventurer is going to do it. He plans to do it faster than anyone else to set a new Guinness World Record. And one more little detail...he’s 85 years old.

You probably don’t have plans to tackle a challenge like hiking across the Grand Canyon. But maybe you’re wondering what you can do to boost your energy levels?

Here are 5 things you can do to put a little pep back into your step:

1. Eat complex carbohydrates

Not the kind found in white rice, white bread, sugary cereal and drinks, or sweets and desserts. Complex carbs are the type of carbs found in whole-grain bread, pasta, rice, and beans. They take longer to digest, helping your body maintain energy levels throughout the day, instead of the crash that follows after eating sugary foods or foods made from refined carbohydrates.

Want an easy way to add more complex carbs to your diet to boost energy levels? Just check out the Senior-Friendly menu, and pick your favorites.

2. Sit less, move more

That probably sounds counterintuitive when you feel like you’re low on energy. But try it, OK?

The next time you’re feeling sluggish, get up and go for a walk. It’s as easy as that. Physical activity elevates your heart rate, increases circulation and oxygen delivery, and gives your brain and body a wake-up call.

3. Stay hydrated

How much water are you drinking per day? On average, drink a minimum of 40 to 64 ounces per day. More if you live in a hot climate, spend a lot of time outdoors, or exercise vigorously.

Early stages of dehydration can leave you feeling tired, fatigued, and low on energy. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Drink more water, and eat more fruits and vegetables that contain water.

4. Get your Zzzs

Here’s another simple way to give your energy levels a boost. Get your Zzzs. Research suggests most adults need at least 7 hours of sleep per night to restore hormone levels linked to metabolism and your energy levels. If you’re not getting enough sleep, create a bedtime routine to help you fall asleep, and get to bed a little earlier...even on weekends.

5. See your doctor

Low-energy levels and fatigue aren’t always a direct result of your diet or lifestyle habits. Some health conditions contribute to fatigue, but they’re usually treatable with diet, medication, and lifestyle changes. Ask your doctor about getting tested for health conditions that could be linked to fatigue.