A recent study's findings could be of particular importance to older adults.

We all remember the message of Aesop's fable, The Hare & the Tortoise: the race is not always to the swift. It's more commonly said that slow and steady wins the race. This holds true for a lot of things in life, especially the steady part of the equation. Most recently, experts are warning just how important "steady" cardio readings are, in comparison to "yo-yo" readings.

According to new research, when it comes to weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, people that had consistent readings over time had a lower risk of heart attack, stroke and premature death than those whose readings fluctuated. Variability in these parameters were found to be more likely in older adults and women. The study, featured on CBS News, points out that the data does not prove that variability in readings causes the heightened risks, but it's associated with them.

Based on the study's findings, experts are recommending that people explore prevention strategies and therapies that could help them maintain consistent blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and aim to keep their weight in check at a normal level (not too thin and not too heavy).

It shouldn't come as a surprise that "yo-yo" readings are bad. "Yo-yo" diets may work in the short run, but most research points to the fact that they fail in the long-run. We also just featured a story about lifestyle habits that help you live a longer life; it's recommended that you avoid jumping from fad to fad and instead aim for consistency in your lifestyle choices.