As we age it becomes vital that we look after our minds and bodies if we are to continue to enjoy life well into retirement. Healthy eating and exercise are the key areas to concentrate on along with regular check ups at the doctors to keep an eye on blood pressure and other health matters, but what are the main messages about health and fitness that we should be listening to?

The most important issue is that we try to eat as healthily as possible for the majority of the time. It is essential to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, lean meat and fish and complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat pasta, rice and bread. It is also crucial especially as we age that we eat healthy fats that can be found in oily fish, nuts and seeds as this helps to keep our joints supple.

There is a debate about whether it is necessary to take vitamin and mineral supplements as a healthy diet should provide the required amounts, but it has been shown that for the majority of people it is a good idea.

Taking regular exercise as we age need not be as extreme as taking up jogging or weight training however Yoga, Pilates, walking and swimming are all good ways to exercise without putting strain on joints and muscles and risking injury.