10 tips to help you age gracefully

When it comes to aging well, most of us already know what we need to do: Exercise, eat right, get a good night’s sleep. Don't smoke or drink heavily.

Just as important, doctors say, don't wait to start taking care of yourself. The good news is the same regimen that helps your heart also benefits your brain, mood, metabolism, and even skin. Aging gracefully isn't rocket science. It just requires energy, stamina and motivation.

1. Exercise regularly

A minimum of 45 minutes of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week, will keep your heart young while improving your figure, mood and brainpower.

2. Eat a mostly Mediterranean diet

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Cook with olive oil instead of butter.

3. "Sin" less

Don't smoke. Limit drinking to no more than one drink a day for women, two for men.

4. Sleep

Getting less than 6.5 hours at night puts you at risk for a host of physical and mental problems.

5. Take care of mental health

Middle age is time to get rid of emotional baggage that stresses you out.

6. Control blood pressure

High blood pressure today sets you up for dementia later.

7. Eat your vitamins

The best way to get vitamins and minerals is from a well-balanced diet.

8. Keep friends close

People who maintain broad social networks as they age have higher scores on intelligence tests and lower rates of dementia, studies show.

9. Learn something new every day

The more you challenge your brain, the better it performs, studies suggest. Better to learn varied things, and participate in group activities.

10. Avoid diabetes

Uncontrolled diabetes can thin the brain’s cortex, increasing risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Again, diet and exercise are the best prevention.

Credits: http://www.boston.com/