This is an update of my previous blog on keeping healthy. I have added a couple more habits since my last post. You may research the science of any of these habits on your own. In my experience, I find that personal action research is always the best verification. These habits work for me but may not suit you or work for you.
Water: I still drink about three glasses of water each morning and have eight to ten glasses each day. I have added a little something to this regimen. Before I drink the third glass of water, I consume a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
Diet: Three months ago, I added intermittent fasting (IF) to my diet. What this means is that, from Monday to Saturday, I fast for 18 hours each day and have a six hour eating window (usually from noon until 6 PM). The only thing I consume during the 18 hour fast is a cup of coffee in the morning, blended with a teaspoon of ghee and a tablespoon of MCT (medium chain triglycerides) oil. I was hovering at 190 pounds for a long time but today, was down to 182. Because of IF, I have moved my breakfast shake to the 6 hour feeding window. I only have two meals a day between noon and 6 PM.
Exercise: I was also reading about the advantages of adding strength training to my exercise routine. I was reluctant because my joints were always sore after a gym routine. I then discovered resistance bands. For the past three months I have introduced resistance band training into my exercise regimen. My goal is not to get big, but just to stay strong and fit at my age. So far, I have not encountered any joint pains and am feeling stronger and fitter. My lower back continues to nag me occasionally, but I have included some lower back strengthening exercises to my daily routine. Rhonda and I also bought bicycles about six months ago. We cycle at least three times a week for about fifty minutes each time. The band training, concept 2 rowing, and cycling keeps me active six days a week. Sunday is a rest day from exercise and intermittent fasting.
Supplements: I still take daily, a multivitamin, a magnesium capsule, a fish oil capsule, a COQ10 capsule (recommended for users of statins). I added cod liver oil and turmeric since my last post. My only regular daily prescribed medications are still a statin (10 mg), Lisinopril (5 mg), and a low dose aspirin (85 mg). It was recommended that I have varicose vein removal and have had it performed on my left leg since my last post. I now regularly wear compression socks, especially when I am bicycling or working out.
Numbers: My current numbers are: Age: 71 yrs (in Aril); weight: 182 lbs; height: 73 ins; BMI: 24; Cholesterol: 148; HDL: 56; LDL: 73; Triglycerides: 93; Glucose: 101. The only number that is still slightly high is my glucose level. BP range is (110 -145)/(70 – 90) with the 5 mg of lisinopril.
Educhirp 