By: Marianne Smith Edge, MS,RD,LD   Date: 5/4/10

From the Older American’s month theme, “age strong, live long!” to the International Food Information Council Foundation's Healthy Aging website title “living well, living longer," the message is clear: physical activity and eating healthy count!  Regardless of how old we think we are ( and I for one, believe in the “forever  young” philosophy), we have to realize we have only one body and how we treat it helps determine  our quality of life as we move into the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s and beyond.

So let’s face the facts. Over 70% of all the chronic diseases that we, as a society, incur are the results of poor lifestyle habits. Granted, we cannot always change our genes, but we do have control over what we put in our mouths and how physically active we want to be! And it’s never too late to start. 

Think Food First
Calories now count more than ever as we watch those decades go by.  Regardless of how active we are, our metabolism is slowing down so choosing nutrient rich foods high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidantsis is the first step.  Here are some of my tips for making nutrient rich foods part of your daily routine:

 For breakfast- add blueberries and walnuts to low-fat vanilla yogurt along with whole wheat toast: a powerful combination of calcium (389 mg Calcium in 1 cup), antioxidants (blueberries) and omega-3 fatty acids (walnuts) as well as B-vitamins and fiber (whole wheat toast) that taste as good as they are healthy. 

 At lunch or dinner- think salads (darker the green, the bigger the nutrient benefit), steamed or sautéed vegetables, whole grain pastas or sweet potatoes….along with grilled salmon (and a glass of red wine) and you have just enjoyed one of my favorite meals!  And the real benefit of eating well? Preventive measures that can help to fight various cancers, heart disease, boost brain function and maintain strong bones.

Add Activity
Along with eating well, staying active is equally important for staying young!  Running, walking, climbing mountains, biking, snow skiing have no age limits. It is important to include at least 30 minutes of physical activity in your daily routine. Studies (and personal experience) show that you feel better and maintain muscle tone and bone density when you move more. 
 
I realize my driver’s license reveals my true age, but I’m determine to maintain the “forever young” mindset …by eating well and running down the street...or climbing my next 14,000 foot mountain. Here’s to your health!