Strawberry Shrimp Salad
Various fruits and vegetables including strawberries, blueberries, grapes, radishes with greens, a red bell pepper, an orange, celery, and an apple on a patterned background.

Embrace a Healthier, Vibrant Life at Any Age

I am passionate about inspiring anyone interested in living a vibrant life, with a special emphasis on our aging society. Let me motivate and guide you in choosing nutritious foods and incorporating movement into your daily routine.

It's Never Too Late to Start

I've heard some people say, "It's too late for me to start eating healthy foods." But let me assure you, it's never too late. Your body deserves the best nourishment it can get. It needs nutrition to function at its best, no matter your age.

Choose Organic Foods

Eating organic foods can significantly reduce our exposure to harmful pesticides and insecticides. The USDA provides a list of approved pesticides for organic foods, which helps in making informed choices. For more details, you can check out The National List | Agricultural Marketing Service (usda.gov).

Be Aware of Harmful Additives

It's crucial to learn about the additives in the products we buy, as some can pose serious health risks. For instance, creamers often contain carrageenan, which may be linked to cancer. Reading labels on packaged foods and drinks is essential. I taught my granddaughter to read labels, and now she makes informed choices, like avoiding a taco kit that contained red dye.

Red and yellow dye additives, as well as certain hair dyes, may contain cancer-causing substances. For further information, you can research these topics through resources like the American Cancer Society.

Shop Smart

A useful tip from my nutritionist is to shop the outer aisles of the grocery store. This is where you'll find fresh, organic vegetables and fruits—nature's best sources of nutrition.

Move Your Body for Health and Longevity

In addition to choosing nutritious foods, it's essential to move your body regularly. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or weight training, any form of movement can contribute to a healthier, more flexible, and stronger body. It's never too late to start incorporating physical activity into your daily routine.

Your Health Journey

Remember, every small step towards healthier eating and regular physical activity can make a big difference. Embrace the journey, inspire others, and let's live our best lives, no matter our age!

cker skins, I buy them organic when they're on sale.

Organic vs. Health Care Costs

Buying organic can be more expensive, but it’s a worthwhile investment compared to costly health care expenses. Organic meats, though pricey, reduce exposure to antibiotics and hormones, while processed meats can increase cancer risk. It's alarming how certain ingredients in products can elevate cancer risks.

Salad Enhancements

To make your salads even more enjoyable:

  • Choose a Base: Start with a base of organic prepacked salad, like butter lettuce.

  • Add Color: Incorporate a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and berries.

  • Include Healthy Fats: Add avocados, nuts, or seeds to boost nutrition and keep you satisfied.

  • Protein Boost: Consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or beans for a balanced meal.

  • Homemade Dressings: Use olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and herbs to create delicious, healthy dressings without additives.

Smart Shopping Tips

My nutritionist taught me to shop the outer aisles of the grocery store, where you'll find fresh produce, meats, and dairy. This helps avoid processed foods that often contain harmful additives.

Movement for a Healthier Life

Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining flexibility, strength, and longevity. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or weight training, incorporating movement into your routine is essential for a vibrant life.

Your Health Journey

Remember, every small step towards healthier eating and regular physical activity can make a big difference. Embrace the journey, inspire others, and let's live our best lives, no matter our age! Let’s look at the 12 fruits and vegetables that are recommended to always buy organic called the "Dirty Dozen": 

  Strawberries.

  1.  Spinach

  2.  Kale 

  3.  Apples 

  4.  Nectarines

  5.  Grapes

  6. Peaches and nectarines

  7.  Cherries 

  8.  Pears

  9.  Tomatoes

  10. Celery 

  11. Potatoes

  12. Strawberries

I was taught to buy any fruit or vegetable with a thin skin, I added all berries to my list.  I buy avocados and bananas organic if they are on sale, they have a thicker skin.  Buying organic does cost more but how does that compare to costly health care costs.  Organic meats are very expensive.  Processed meats can increase the risk of cancer.  It is alarming how some ingredients increase the risk of cancer in the products we buy.

I discovered several ingredients to make my salads better with the fruits and vegetables I enjoy eating.

Add the amount of the base of your salad of what you think you can eat including your added fruits and vegetables.  I use organic prepacked salad most of the time, my favorite is butter lettuce.

Maxine Kline Maxine Kline

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