Physical Development Age 20-39 Early Adulthood Physical Development Age 20-39

Physical Qualities and Changes Both men and women commonly experience weight gain. Both stop growing physically. Young adults are stronger and faster, have more muscle tissue, better eyesight and hearing, better lung capacity, and a better immune system than middle or older adults. By age 30, physical qualities start to decline. For example, people usually struggle to see up close by the end of this stage.

Optimum Physical Functioning Young adulthood is a time for strong physical performance, especially before the age of 30. Speed, strength, and balance all reach their peak between this time and adolescence. This relates to skeletal maturity because bones finally reach their full size. During the 20’s bones are stronger due to more calcium and people have the most muscle mass. During the late 20’s fat tissue starts to increase while muscle mass starts to decrease.

Nutrition Energy needs decrease so therefore less calories should be consumed to avoid weight gain. Being overweight can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Certain nutrient needs increase: potassium, iron, vitamin D, B vitamins, calcium, and zinc. Nutrient dense foods become really important. Eating out becomes a big social activity during this time, choose foods low in fat.

Physical Activity It is recommended to have 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of rigorous activity. Aerobic and muscle strengthening activities are important for overall physical health. Flexibility is also important for the muscles. Physical activity can be a social activity and it can also be a great way to reduce stress.

sleeping Adults need 7-9 hours of sleep at night on the average. A lack of sleep interferes with energy levels which can affect overall well being. During early adulthood people may experience insomnia, difficulty falling asleep or not sleeping long at a time. This could be due to: stress, anxiety, depression, alcohol, nicotine, work schedules, and more.

Medical, Dental and Eye Care Young adults have fewer colds, chronic conditions, and respiratory problems than children. They are more immune due to past exposure. An annual physical exam is very important. It is also important to review your family medical history to see if there are any medical risks, this may warrant additional testing. Dental cleanings and check-ups are recommended twice a year and eye exams yearly.

Effects of Alcohol Abuse Since young adults reach the legal drinking age, some experiment with it and get involved with binge drinking. This is heavy consumption over a short period of time. This can lead to dependency, which can lead to alcoholism. This can affect every area of one’s life, especially causing health problems down the road.