The middle-aged man’s guide to healthy living
Dr Michael Mosley - the man behind the popular 5:2 Diet — outlines 10 steps to follow to stay young and vigorous for as long as possible
Dr Michael Mosley, inventor of the 5:2 Diet
http://www.independent.ie/life/the-middleaged-mans-guide-to-healthy-living-35075798.html
The middle-aged man’s guide to healthy living
I have an obvious interest in this subject because I am a man and I am middle-aged. Though, to be honest, I am technically only “middle aged” if I live till I’m nearly 120.
Like most people, I’m keen to stay as young and vigorous as possible for as long as possible. No male member of my family has lived longer than 74 years, a record I am keen to break.
Although I trained as a doctor, I have spent the last couple of decades making films for the BBC (programmes such as Trust Me I’m a Doctor and Horizon), during the course of which I’ve been able to pick the brains of health experts all around the world. As a result of what I’ve learnt, I have changed how I live. The following advice is not necessarily what you’ll hear from your doctor, but it is based on the latest science.
1 Measure up
Middle-aged men are prone to self-delusion, thinking they are slimmer, fitter, healthier and far more handsome than they really are. A reality check is useful, and if you keep a record of your measurements you can also tell if your new health regime is working.
A good place to start is with your heart rate, measured first thing in the morning.
Having a resting heart rate over 80 is a bad sign. A recent study of 11,000 people found that those with a heart rate above 70 beats per minute had significantly shorter lives than those who were noticeably below that figure. A top athlete will have a resting pulse of 40 or less. Mine is currently around 60. Losing weight and getting fitter will bring your pulse rate down. Read more: http://www.independent.ie/life/the-middleaged-mans-guide-to-healthy-living-35075798.html
