Nutrition is vital, in the true sense of the word, at any age. Much is written about it and research published. My wife Carol and I attempt to keep up. The conclusions lead to individual choices: What makes sense for you? Are you willing to make a commitment for long-term goals? From personal experience it is easier said than done, but so worth it.

With advancing age, I have learned a thing or two (or so I think) and enjoy sharing my experience as I know it has enriched my life and helps to keep me around.

In our home, the day usually starts with fresh organic lemon juice in a glass of water to wake up the internal system. The lemon juice can be alternated with a tablespoon or two of organic apple cider vinegar. During the day continuing hydration is a must.

Nutritional supplements are the next step, all taken on an empty stomach. I should mention the following statement “Not approved by the FDA.” (Apparently it is safer to mention this as it is printed on every supplement bottle and package). Because I cannot tolerate swallowing pills and to a lesser degree capsules, I have chosen supplements in effervescent powder form. A capful each of: multivitamins, multiminerals, vitamin B complex, an antioxidant (grape seed extract, red wine extract, pine bark extract, bilberry extract, citrus extract combined), joint and bone support formula, calcium complete, and vitamin D with K2 – all mixed together in a glass of purified water. After stirring, it all combines into a tasty, refreshing drink. The liquid rushes into the lower intestines in minutes for efficient distribution at the cellular level. The medical term is bioavailability, and it is stated that one glass of this liquid completes the bodily need for most vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for 24 hours. By contrast pills take hours to dissolve, not to mention the discomfort and the useless binders and fillers to hold them together.

Why do we need supplements? Because modern farming and production methods deplete the soil and livestock of essential nutrients, not to mention pesticides and hormones added to increase yields. It is also the reason for purchasing, if possible, only organically grown fruits, grains and vegetables. In the grain family, we avoid wheat products, white rice and all gluten-containing carbohydrates. Excellent alternatives are chia seeds, quinoa, gluten-free stone rolled oats, and small red potatoes. Sugar in any form is unhealthy, so we try to avoid it.

Green leafy vegetables, creatively prepared, support health and so do low glycemic fruits. For variety, grass fed beef, organic chicken (no hormones or antibiotics) and US caught wild fish are our food choices. A Nutri Bullet blender prepares a diversity of powerfully healthy drinks including the juices, fiber and proteins. In our opinion it is a must in any health-promoting kitchen.

Choices for health are very individual, but always remember that a healthy outside starts from the inside.

George can be reached at [email protected]