Health Tips for March 27

Health Tip: Asthmatics Don't Have to Stop Exercising

Exercise is good for most people, even asthmatics who have their doctor's approval.

The American Council on Exercise offers these suggestions to help reduce your risk of an asthma attack while exercising:

• Keep your inhaler or other asthma medication nearby, in case you become short of breath during exercise.
• Warm up for at least 15 minutes before exercise.
• Take plenty of time to cool down, and slowly decrease your activity.
• Drink plenty of water before exercise.
• Don't exercise outdoors when air quality is compromised by allergens or pollution.
• Don't overexert yourself.
• Breathe deeply, in through your nose and out through your mouth.
• Don't push yourself too much. Give yourself a break, especially if it feels like you're on the verge of an asthma attack.

Health Tip: Exercise for Bone Health

As you age, your bones tend to lose density, become weaker and are more likely to fracture. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to help keep bones strong.

Besides recommending that you get enough bone-building vitamin D and calcium in your diet, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these exercise recommendations:

• Walking and jogging.
• Hiking.
• Cross-country skiing.
• Stair-climbing machines, or climbing stationary stairs.
• Dancing and jumping rope.
• Sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, field hockey and softball.