By Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Mike Roizen, MDs From Newsmax Health

The United States has 4.6% of the world’s population, but consumes 80% of the world’s opioids. Yet OxyContin isn’t the only medication that’s got older folks on the ropes.

A recent study that found 25% of older Americans who are prescribed Xanax or Valium to help them sleep or quell anxiety become hooked. Because 9% to 12% of women and about 5% to 6% of men 65 or older are prescribed the drug, that’s up to 2,205,000 addicted seniors.

As a society we look for shortcuts. We give or take a pill instead of exerting the effort necessary to improve well-being through lifestyle choices (nutrition, exercise, sleep, de-stressing, and avoiding toxins).

Some older adults also indulge in a little recreational drug use. In fact, a new study found that 9% of adults 50 to 64 and almost 3% of those 65 and older had used marijuana in the past year. Those folks, say the researchers from New York University School of Medicine, are more likely to abuse alcohol, cocaine, and prescription drugs.

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Whatever the cause, these days it’s fair to say that we’re living in a society where many people don’t know how to age with vigor and dignity.

Witness the fact that 90 million have diabetes or prediabetes, 100 million live with chronic pain, and around 60 million have experienced an anxiety disorder during the past year. Many of these conditions can be remedied with proper diet and exercise.

Whatever your age, you can change your future by reducing pain and anxiety through a few simple steps:

• Lose weight if you need to.
• Eliminate highly processed foods and red meats; eat fruits, veggies, and 100% whole grains.
• Get moving by walking, doing pool exercises, chair-based yoga, strength-building exercises, and stretching.

As your body helps you control pain, you’ll sleep better, dispel stress, and increase your enjoyment of life. Then, if truly needed, pain and anti-anxiety medications may be smart to take, and effective.

The Hidden Cause of Fatigue & Low Energy

From Newsmax.com
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