My 7 Rules for Looking and Staying Young and Healthy

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Let me preface this post with the following: I'm not what most would consider a health and wellness expert. I don't have any related degrees or certifications. I studied environmental science. However, I did grow up with healthy habits and I've carried those habits into adulthood. I also read up on the topic in my free time and have experimented with different ideas over the years.

I like to think I've successfully navigated all of the information out there. It can be really confusing and, at times, conflicting. Add to that the people trying to make a buck from all of the fad diets out there. I hate fad diets. You should too.

If there is one "diet" I do like, it's the Blue Zone diet. People in the world's blue zones are the healthiest on Earth. They often reach their 100th birthday while maintaining a good quality of life. The lessons from those lifestyles heavily influenced my advice below.

You'll notice that the list isn't very long and the information isn't very cumbersome. Just like everything else in life, I like to keep things simple. Less is more. Am I right?

1. Eat when you're hungry. Your body will tell you when it needs nourishment. Listen to it. Eat. But before you do, see numbers 2 and 3 below.
2. Eat the right things. Avoid the crap. You know what it is. So avoid it. Well, do your best. I have an insane sweet tooth and treat myself from time to time. I think it's okay to cheat once in a while. Check labels and avoid bad fats, sugars, and chemicals. Eat lots of plants - fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts, seeds, etc. I personally put garlic and extra virgin olive oil in everything I cook. Drink lots of water. Moderate everything else. The best general advice I can give is to pay attention to how foods make you look and feel. I personally notice a big difference in my skin and energy levels when I avoid wheat and dairy.
3. Don't eat too much. Eat one plate of food then wait and see how you feel. There's usually a delay between eating and satiation. Nibble throughout the day. Avoid that large meal right before bed.
4. Move your body. Our bodies were meant to move. So move it. Get your heart rate up every day. Push yourself a little too. Go run. Play sports. Clean your house. Mow the lawn. Take the stairs. Anything. Do it in the sunshine for added benefits.
5. SLEEP. Don't forget this. I'm not going to tell you how much you need. Everyone is different. Again, listen to your body. Sleep or nap if you're tired (if it's an option).
6. Be happy. Your mindset is very important. Do what you love. Surround yourself with people you like. Do things for them. Do anything else that makes you feel good.
7. Don't focus on your weight. This one might be a bit controversial. Obviously, being overweight is unhealthy. I'm simply saying focus on being healthy and the weight will take care of itself. Throw away the scale. This is good for your mental health too.

That's pretty much it. No need to overcomplicate things. Like I said before, keep it simple. Don't confuse yourself. Don't stress yourself out. You know your body better than anyone else. Listen to it. Unless it's that sweet tooth!