Nutrition and fitness can be our best defense against many diseases and reduce our risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and hypertension. Proper nutrition and regular exercise can influence our energy levels and moods and have a great impact on our health. Here are some practical ways for you and your family to live healthier today:

• Incorporate healthy foods such as those in the Mediterranean diet into your daily meals, customizing them for your family’s likes and dislikes.

• Set goals for yourself. Make them specific and attainable.

• Be positive.

• Learn relaxation techniques and tune in to your mind-body connection.

• Be a good role model for your children and grandchildren. What you do often makes a stronger impact than what you say.

• Learn the key foods that provide the nutrients you and your family need.

• Add more superfoods and anti-aging foods to your diet.

• Understand why protein is so important for a strong, healthy body and for hunger management.

• Drink pure water to stay hydrated and to remove wastes and toxins from your body.

• Buy organic foods; pesticides can harm your organ systems.

• Learn about the good and bad fats.

• Continue to find easy ways for you and your family to become healthier together.

Live your best life now!