As a thriving member of the 55+ set, it\u2019s your primary goal to remain healthy and active for many years to come. (After all, you\u2019ve just moved into a brand new single-family home at The Villages at Two Rivers, and the opportunities for fun are boundless.) A healthy, active lifestyle means plenty of exercise, sure, but more importantly:<\/p>\n
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The foundation for an enduringly healthy, active lifestyle over 55 (and at any age) is laid on a healthy, balanced diet. <\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n The benefits of healthy eating are many, and include increased mental acuteness; resistance to illness and disease; higher energy levels; faster recuperation times, and better management of chronic health problems. And the benefits aren\u2019t all physical; as active adults living in Odenton, Maryland, eating well can also contribute to a positive outlook and staying emotionally balanced.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Consider the following tips for eating healthy as an active adult in Maryland. <\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Reduce your sodium intake.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Excess sodium (or, salt) intake can lead to water retention and higher blood pressure. Instead, look for \u201clow sodium\u201d labels, and season your meals with garlic, herbs and spices instead of table salt.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Enjoy good fats.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Olive oil, avocados, salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed: The good, monounsaturated fats from these yummy sources can protect your heart from disease by controlling the so-called \u2018bad\u2019 LDL cholesterol levels while raising the \u2018good\u2019 HDL cholesterol levels.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Stay away from simple carbohydrates.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Simple carbohydrates aren\u2019t healthy for anyone, let alone an active adult such as yourself. These foods \u2014 such as white flour, refined sugar, and white rice \u2014 have been stripped of all bran, fiber, and nutrients. With all the good stuff gone, what\u2019s the point? The point is, they digest quickly and cause spikes in blood sugar levels.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n