Part II - 12 Secrets to Health and Longevity: Keys to Good Nutrition and to Eating Healthy

Here is Part II of the 12 secrets to health and longevity. In case you missed Part I, I'll repeat the introductory question and comments.

Question: What would I say if someone asked me what they had to do to live a long and healthy life?

Answer: I'd say, "Do you want the short answer or the long answer?"

Here's my short answer...
Listen, know, and understand that there are keys of knowledge that will help you unlock the secrets to a long and healthy life.

These keys to good nutrition and to healthy eating will open a whole new world of health, life, and vitality to you. I believe you were created by God and destined to live a life of health and prosperity.

5. GIVE YOUR BODY THE REST IT NEEDS TO REJUVENATE ITSELF

Get 8 or 9 hours of sleep a night, and make sure to go to bed by 10 pm. Take a short power nap when you can. Learn how to manage stress and to take better care of your body. Give your body the Sabbath day of rest your Creator made for your rejuvenation from Friday sundown to Saturday sundown. The seventh day of the week was created to be a day of rest for mankind. It was made for man to relax and rest, to take a mental and physical break from his work, and to connect with his Creator in a special way. This is a great day to spend more time alone with God, and to spend special time with your family and friends.

6. FAST FROM FOOD ONCE A WEEK

Learn the extremely healthy habit of therapeutic fasting. One day a week fast from all food and just drink natural spring water. This will give your body the time and rest it needs to purge itself of toxins and heal itself. Once or twice a year go on a longer juice fast of 7-21 days for a greater detoxification process and more thorough healing process. Fasting is one of the healthiest things you can do for your body, so make it a regular part of your life and enjoy the health benefits.

7. EXERCISE DAILY

Daily exercise is a very important part of reducing stress in your body and mind. It also helps to keep your muscles strong and flexible. In addition, daily exercise will help keep you regular. One of the best things you can do to exercise is to take a 30-60 minute power walk outside in the fresh air and in the sunlight. Remember to also practice deep breathing exercises to increase the oxygen in your lungs and body. Do vigorous aerobic and anaerobic exercise. Lift weights every other day to increase and maintain your muscles (strength training). Use a "rebounder" (mini-trampoline) for 5-10 minutes a day. And finally, be sure to enjoy the pleasure of vigorous sex (aka - sexercise) with your spouse daily. It's great for your health and your relationship, and it's a gift of God to enjoy.

8. KEEP YOUR INTESTINES CLEAN WITH FIBER & REGULAR BOWEL MOVEMENTS

Constipation is dangerous to your health and can lead to all kinds of health problems. It is a huge problem in America, and it is very much a result of eating the standard American diet of highly processed and refined foods made with things like white flour, white sugar, refined salt, high-fructose corn syrup, processed meats, fast food, junk food, etc. Most Americans don't eat enough vegetables and fruit in their diet, and therefore they do not get enough fiber in their intestinal tract. Some of the most prominent nutritionists and doctors believe that most illnesses can be traced back to the intestines and constipation. Make it a habit to eat plenty of high fiber vegetables, fruits, seeds, grains, and nuts to keep yourself regular. Do plenty of exercise and drink lots of natural water. For more information on fiber, keeping your colon clean, and regular bowel movements, see my blog on September 22, 2007.