Beautiful place, unhealthy lifestyle.

Just got back from a wonderful trip to Ohio to attend a wedding. It was my first time to visit this beautiful state with it's vast landscapes and green countrysides. The people are friendly, helpful and a lot of fun. This is the core of our American culture which is thoughtful, hardworking and generous.

If you're confused by the picture on the right it was our trip to Machu Picchu in the Andes last year. That's me holding up the old archway!!!

Regardless of my good feelings about Ohio I couldn't help but notice their eating habits and lack of exercise. I saw so many people of all ages who were very overweight or obese. As we all know the two reasons for over weight comes from eating to much compounded by eating the wrong foods. The other reason is a lack of exercise.

Let me give you my experience and advice as a healthy 74 year old man, in these two areas.

Eating:

1. Change your eating habits by eating less (25%) to start.

2 .Eat slowly and chew your food well.

3. Eat at regular intervals, no snacking and enjoy your food.

4. Reduce fat content (more fruit and vegetables, less animal fats). Chicken and fish are fine in moderation. Beans, lentils and nuts have lots of protein and little fat.

6. Do not eat and drink. Drink prior to eating (10 minutes before and 10 minutes after eating).

7. Don't eat just before bedtime, a good 1 1/2 before at the latest.

Exercise:

1. The human body needs movement everyday so just go out the door for a brisk walk or a jog for at least 1/2 hour. No excuses!!

2. If you don't like to run take a hike or go for a bike ride.

3. Resistant exercises (weights) are very important as we age. At least 3 times a week.

4. Stairs may be the best single exercise around. No matter how many steps you take at a time, one or two, it's all good. Keep your back straight and try not to use the railing.

5. Finish your exercise with some stretching and sit-ups. Go easy in the beginning and soon your body will get use to all this movement.

These are the very basic things to get started and always remember:

Keep it Simple, Consistent and Fun.