Live long and prosper. Remember that? Living long has come to be an expectation for most people living in developed countries. Prospering? That’s another story when you consider the out of control cost of healthcare. Doesn't matter  whether you opt for conventional or “natural” modalities. Either way, it is possible to live long.

Becoming ageless is a matter of taking control of the life you lead. It doesn’t matter when you begin. Start now.  Begin with looking at your lifestyle. How’s your diet? When was the last time you exercised consistently, and felt like you were in reasonably good shape?

Uhh, if you draw a big blank, it’s time to get to work.

It has been documented that those who live the longest have several dietary habits in common. First, their caloric intake is lower than most other people in Western cultures. These people typically have a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed whole grain foods.

These people choose fats that protect against rather than stimulate inflammation in the body. These include the omega 3 fats in fatty fish and some nuts, as well as monounsaturated fats like olive oil.

Scientists are currently doing animal studies on “caloric restriction” and are finding that middle aged mice fed a diet with 30% fewer calories than counterparts were less likely to manifest with signs or symptoms of aging.

People in most cultures who have longevity have lived an active life both physically and socially. These people have taken every opportunity to keep fit by walking, bicycling, gardening, working with their hands. You can do that. Get moving and keep moving!

Let go of all the excuses. I know knees hurt sometimes, feet hurt, the back hurts, and on and on. Knees hurt quite often due to obesity and degeneration from carrying the extra weight around. Get rid of it!

Speaking of ideas, keep them flowing with an active set of brain cells refreshed and rejuvenated by frequent exercise (yes exercise!). Physical and mental exercise is known to help the gray matter stay fit.

Read that newspaper, solve the puzzle, get angry and send your comments to the editor!  Read books, write books. Learn something new and tell someone else about it.

Age is just a number. We are all living longer. The goal is to live longer with better health. Doing that is easy. The basic health measures that keep our heart healthy, lower our risk of cancers, and that keep us physically fit allow us to achieve this goal. Go on, get going!