Sports is one of the many things, we seniors, are always reminded about. In fact, we are highly encouraged to participate in any sports by our family, friends and doctors so that we can somehow fight the onslaught of the aging process. Because exercising has been a greatly cheered activity, the hazards of it are often overlooked and downplayed.

First off, even if seniors are encouraged to participate in activities that will make them sweat or just enjoy the moment, we should never push it too hard, especially if we lived almost half of our lives sitting in offices or working in front of a computer which takes most of the credit as to why our butts have grown so big all these years! Consider your mind and body as two separate entities; while your mind can suggest things your body can do, if your body is not accustomed to such stress, it is bound to break down. Aside from that, when we exercise, there are changes both inside and out of our bodies. Exercising can relieve the body of toxins, unfortunately, some important minerals and nutrients go along with it especially water. In such cases, you need to closely monitor your water intake during exercise to avoid getting the body dehydrated.

Hence sports nutrition. It may not be one of the popular diets known today but it is indeed one of the most important ones existing. Here are some fast facts about sports nutrition that can benefit seniors:

·    Replenish with water. There are many sports drinks in the market today, different brands, different marketing styles but their one common denominator is their claim to replenish your body of lost minerals and nutrients when sweating. What you don’t know is that they are also packed with sugars, in form of carbs, which you don’t need. Sports drinks are only recommended if your body has been subjected to 1 and a half hours of continuous sweating. Anything below that can be handled by water alone.
·    Get to know carbs. When we go on a diet, we know that carbohydrates are one of the things we need to avoid. BUT, carbohydrate gives the body energy. If we try to limit or restrict intake, it will definitely affect our energy levels making it difficult to perform exercises. Carbohydrates, being our main source of energy should always be kept in balance. Truth be told, there are two kinds of carbs, I suggest you stay way from the bad ones.
·    Beware of supplements, especially those packed, packaged, processed.. anything that is not natural. These can be found in most gyms and fitness centres.
·    Keep a varied diet so that you ensure your body of getting all the right nutrients. No binge eating of course! Just maintain healthy portions when eating. Take note of your iron levels since it is important in maintaining stamina during exercise.
·    Calcium is also important to avoid bone injury and fractures from happening.
·    Regular checkups are highly encouraged so you can be properly monitored by your doctor.