In 1513 explorer Juan Ponce de Leon set out on a mission—to find the Fountain of Youth. Reputed to have restorative powers, giving those who drink its water a renewed vitality—and a return to their youth, the Fountain of Youth was a sought-after destination. Juan Ponce de Leon never achieved his mission. Instead, he discovered Florida, which ironically has become an enclave of the aged, thanks to its warm climate and lower cost of living. 

Today many people still believe in the Fountain of Youth. They search for it constantly. They buy drinks, pills, and creams. Some even have surgery. Infomercials bombard cable TV with the latest quick-fix feel young formulas.  Those in the business are getting rich plying their goods to people who believe they can recapture their youth by swallowing a pill or using a cream.

It’s time to take off the blinders and get real. While no one can go back, they can go forward feeling younger and feeling better, because they have discovered the real fountain of youth—exercise and making healthy food choices.  We all want to feel good, look good, and live a long life.  Unfortunately today’s society has set us up to fail.  Most of the foods we eat are processed, for ease of preparation and to accommodate today’s busy lifestyles. We don’t eat enough fresh fruits and vegetables.  Fast food is the norm for many families. Today’s youth lead a much more sedentary lifestyle, choosing video games and their laptops over going outside to play with the neighborhood kids.  Desk jobs are another culprit. Things that are purported to make life easier and less complicated are, in fact, affecting the overall health of the U. S. population. We are growing older at a younger age.  Statistics show an alarming trend of an increase in heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and joint problems—all results of unhealthy lifestyles.

Starting at age 50, people begin to lose 12% of their muscle strength and 6% of their muscle mass every decade. These factors, coupled with a lack of attention to health and fitness are a dangerous combination. Weight training and exercise are the keys to reversing this loss.  Studies have shown that 2-3 months of weight training for 30 minutes three times a week can increase muscle strength and mass by one-third, making up for three decades of loss.  As they say, 50 is the new 30.  People who exercise are feeling better, looking better, and living longer. They enjoy a better quality of life by incorporating these elements into their lives and the results speak for themselves.

Just do it. Get started. Set a goal.  Whether it is to lose five pounds, run a mile, or even lower your blood pressure, just do it.  Focusing on your goal will keep you on the right track to finding your own personal fountain of youth. 

Stay Healthy
Nic