Quiz: How to be fit at 50

What do Sandra Bullock, Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp and Sarah Jessica Parker have in common? They are all age 50 or older. And 50 is considered “the perfect age” according to the people surveyed in a recent Harris interactive poll. That’s because, at age 50, people are young enough to feel they have every opportunity at their fingertips.  

Take the quiz above to find out what to do today to ensure a healthier tomorrow. Positive lifestyle changes can reduce heart problems, cancer, memory loss and bone fractures at a young age. Check with your doctor before starting a fitness program and/or making changes to your diet.

What should be increased or added to a fitness regimen?

A. Aerobic

B. Strength Training

C. Plyometrics

Answer: Light strength trainig has been shown to not only buld muschle, but also to help boost brain helath and metabolism. Add squates, curls and tricpe kickbacks to your exercise routing (with your doctor's approval).

What two vitamins might people over 50 need to increase?

A. Vitamin K

B. Vitamin B12

c. Vitamin D

Answer: B12 and D. As people age, they sometimes become deficient in B12 and D which are imprortant for boosting mood, energy and immune health. Talk to your doctor about testoing your levels.

What mineral should women over age 50 stop taking?

A; Iron

B. Potassioum

C. Phosporous

Answer: Iron.. Women's iron requirements change as they age. As a general guideline, women over age 50 do not need an iron supplement, but as always, talk to your doctor to see if thay make sense for you.

What is the new systolic blood pressure guideline?

A 120

B. 130

c. 140

Answer: 120. According to the recent NIH Sprint results, 120 is the guideline. That goal isn't for everyone, though, so talk to your doctor about your specific needs.

How much is too much salt?

A. >2,500 mg/day

B. >2,000 mg/day

C. > 1,500 mg/day

Answer: > 1,500 mg/day. Blood pressure rises with age and sodium can also send i higher. That's whay it's important to limit salt in your diet but reducing consumption of processed foods. Bananas and other potassium-rich foods can also lessen the effect.

How much sleep should people over 50 aim to get per night?

A. 5-6 hours

B. 7-9 hours

C. 10 hours

Answer: While sleep may be harder to achieve, sleep needs to not change as we age so 7-9 hours is recommended.