Exercise bike alternative for aged fitness enthusiasts: Consider the recumbent bicycle
In this week's column, we delve into a variety of topics ranging from exercise and vitamins to prostheses, all aimed at maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
A reader from Connecticut has suggested the use of a stationary recumbent bike for cardio exercise. This piece of equipment, they claim, reduces the risk of falling and is easier on feet and knees. Previously, we had suggested this as a safer alternative to a treadmill for an 85-year-old man.
Speaking of vitamins, let's focus on B12, a crucial nutrient for older adults due to age-related changes in digestion that may impair absorption. The recommended daily amount for adults is 2.4 micrograms. When seeking a supplement, opt for the natural form, or methylcobalamin, rather than the synthetic form, cyanocobalamin.
It's also worth noting that antacids can contribute to a vitamin B12 deficiency by hindering digestion. However, foods such as cereals, milk, orange juice, and some plant-based beverages are excellent sources of this vital vitamin.
Now, let's address a question from a reader in Los Angeles concerning a particular brand of vitamin B12 supplement. While we can't provide personal replies due to the high volume of mail, we encourage you to explore online resources for detailed reviews and comparisons.
Moving on to a different topic, a reader, who is a cancer survivor and counsels preoperative and postoperative patients, shared her experience with prosthetic breasts as an alternate option following a mastectomy.
For those seeking information on breast prostheses, online searches for "breast prostheses" yield a wealth of information and photos of available options, including bras, swimwear, partial forms, and profiles of manufacturers with local fitter addresses. Insurance coverage and prescription requirements are also addressed online.
However, we regret to inform that no relevant information was found in the search results regarding companies or manufacturers in the United States offering professional breast prostheses covered by insurance.
Lastly, we would like to remind our readers to specify their location when writing and to look forward to the bonus letters column, which will be published next week. As always, we encourage our readers to send their questions and comments to [email protected]. For those who prefer to write a letter, our mailing address is provided.
Stay healthy and keep the questions coming!
