If you are thinking of consulting your doctor to find out more about preventative health care and steps you can take, you might want to look elsewhere. This is because their recommendations will often be focused on statins and other drugs offered up by the pharmaceutical industry. The simple fact is that drugs don’t improve your health. The truth is that they temporarily make you feel better, but often leave you feeling worse in the long run.

It is very important to remember that your traditional doctor receives very little training in nutritional healthcare. He or she is trained primarily in disease management, and therefore the focus isn’t on keeping you young, healthy or able!

Foods to stock up on

Good nutrition is the backbone of health. The right lifestyle choices, proper food choices and exercise will all help to keep you healthy. No matter what your age may be, you need to have a plan for maintaining your health. So let’s take a look at the foods you should be considering for your long-term health plan!

1) Essential fatty acids

Sardines, wild Alaskan salmon, olive oil and hemp oil are just a few examples of foods that are rich in brain-healthy fats such as omega-3 essential fatty acids.

2) Vegetables

Vegetables are loaded with nutritional goodness. Try to consume 8 to 12 servings of vegetables per day in soups, stir- fries, salads or juices.

3) Fruits

Aim for several servings of fruit per day, with a focus on dark- skinned fruits, which have the highest levels of anti-ageing antioxidants. Additionally, avocados stand as a true superfood, as they are loaded with a wide range of nutrients.

4) Beans, nuts and seeds

You will receive optimal absorbency if you soak your beans for 24-48 hours before eating.

Foods to eliminate from your diet

Skip breads, grains, pastry, breakfast cereals, pasta, high sugar fruits, high sugar vegetables, such as parsnips and potatoes, as well as white rice. Cut out processed foods, cut down on alcohol and drink plenty of water! A good way to start the day is with a large glass of hot water and freshly squeezed lemon.

Smart supplementation

Exercise and smart supplementation is, of course, key as well. Consider walking 3 to 5 miles every day at a fast rate and using a long stride.

Supplements such as curcumin, serrapeptase, CoQ10, mineral supplements containing lutein, a good quality multivitamin and digestive enzymes will help you to maintain and improve your health.

Above all, have a purpose in life, for without goals, you will lack drive. Do volunteer work in your community, join groups and work to make friends. Without these vital components of happiness, all the supplements in the world may do you little good.