Published: July 9, 2021 | Updated: May 22, 2023
Increasing energy after age 50 can be difficult for men as testosterone levels decrease, impacting bone and muscle development and heart health in addition to energy levels. It is not uncommon to begin to carry weight at your waistline, which increases the likelihood of heart disease.
Try hiking, kayaking, biking, swimming or taking an exercise class. Find a form of activity you enjoy and will want to pursue regularly. Weightlifting can help preserve bone and muscle density. Consume nutritious food and hydrate yourself. Proper nutrition will help energize you throughout the day. Foods like celery, cucumbers, strawberries, peaches and watermelon have higher water content and can help keep you hydrated.
Get the health care that will help keep you active for a long time.
Keep your mind sharp with puzzles like sudoku and crosswords. Read books, magazines or newspapers that interest you and discuss them with friends and family. Engage in conversations and debates that challenge your critical thinking and recall skills. Staying mentally active will give you energy and motivation to accomplish any task you set your mind to!
You may find that you need more sleep to feel rested. Strive for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Develop and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Too little sleep is linked to chronic diseases and conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity and depression. Difficulty falling asleep? Avoid using electronics while winding down for the night.
Drink in moderation. Alcohol can negatively impact your brain function and overall quality of life. It may be more difficult to feel energized if you are a heavy drinker.
If you can’t shrug off feeling sluggish, check in on your mental health. Take a few minutes to observe how you are feeling. Regular exercise and nutrition can help improve your outlook. If you are experiencing mood swings, significant distress, anxiety or stress, talk to your primary care doctor about potential treatment options.
Joshua Bentley, M.D., is a family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates primary care – Mid City Mall.
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