How I stay fit and healthy in my 60s

For many of us, our 60s means more - more freedom and more time. Now we’ve got it, we naturally want to go places and do things. Do we want to be held back by illness? No, we absolutely don’t. That’s the thing that can slow anybody down and prevent them from doing the things they love, whatever their age. So, while my schedule is currently showing no sign of spare time, I am always working on the health bit and there are some routines I follow every day to keep fit and healthy.

Firstly, diet. I eat a high protein diet with loads of veg, slow-release carbohydrates, and good fats. I don’t eat much red meat and I (try to) save any alcohol for weekends. When it comes to supplements, I do take a vitamin D tablet as it’s a great way to ensure I’m getting enough of the vitamin to support the normal functioning of my bones, muscles, and immune system. A multi-nutrient that’s specially formulated for an active   lifestyle (1), like Seven Seas, is an excellent idea to top up in case of shortfall in nutritional goodness*. Seven Seas JointCare range is formulated with Vitamin C, Vitamin D and Manganese to provide 4in1 JointCare (1): it supports four important components of the joint: cartilage, bones, muscles and connective tissue (1). Every product in Seven Seas JointCare range also contains glucosamine and Omega-3. Omega-3 is important because your body cannot produce it from scratch and you can only get it through outside sources such as diet and supplements. It supports three major organs in your body, your heart (2), brain (3) and eyes (3).

Secondly, exercise - I’m a sucker for it and work out pretty much every day. I do a mix of strength training, HIIT, and walking, but it’s as much a mental benefit as a physical one. I go walking a lot, sometimes with friends and sometimes just with a podcast. The joy of the outdoors, fresh air, and a jolly good laugh are a tonic for your mood.

While I think that everyone should do the exercise that they love best, whether that’s taking a dip in the pool, hiking in the countryside or a jog at the local park, strength training is the really important part as the muscles need to keep being challenged as we get older.

Thirdly, sleep. When it comes to sleep, I aim for (but don’t always achieve) seven hours a night. Then I have one luxury lie-in per week.

But it’s not all about what you do physically that makes a difference in your 60s. Like many other people, I’ve acquired many different friends and acquaintances over the years. In my fifties, I decided to spend my spare time with just those whose company fills my soul - rather than drains it. It was a big move but so worth it.

When it comes to working, my job is a huge part of my life and it brings me rewards and fulfilment every day. Not to mention mental stimulation, which, fingers crossed, will keep the grey matter ticking over well into my golden years.

And speaking of doing the things you love, love is an important part of staying healthy. Love is the cherry on top that keeps you fit and healthy in your 60s.

Not just passion and romantic relationships though, but kindness and care whether that’s between family, friends, neighbours, or your local community.

*Food supplements must not replace a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. 

(1) Seven Seas JointCare Supplements contain: Vitamin D which supports normal functioning muscles and normal bones. Vitamin C for the normal formation of collagen for the normal function of cartilage. Manganese for the normal formation of connective tissues or Copper contributes to maintenance of normal connective tissues.

(2) A daily intake of 250mg EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) helps support normal heart function. 

(3) 250mg DHA daily helps support normal vision and brain function.