With more than two-thirds of the nation's population overweight and health care costs continually on the rise, more and more Americans are making optimal health and disease prevention as major priority. Many of those leading the charge are baby boomers-those of us between ages 40 and 60 who are realizing that we have far more control over our wellness than we once thought.

As a result, many more of us are striving to learn how we can reduce the risk of the health problems that may have affected our parents and older relatives-like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. There is a growing consensus in the scientific community that these chronic disease states are, to a large degree, the result of lifestyle choices. So, if we want to live not only long but also well, we have to take the right actions now. Especially since some of our best and most productive years will be those ahead of us.

How can you ensure your health future? The answers lie in the choices you make every day. How important is your health to you on a scale of 1-5? Are you willing to do what it takes to optimize it? This includes reaching and maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, moving towards a more plant-based diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans and legumes, exercising moderately at least 3 times weekly, and regularly incorporating high-quality nutritional supplementation.

Although all these elements are essential to good health, optimal nutrient intake, combined with the healthiest possible diet, is of paramount importance. Learn more on promoting your health and minimizing wellness challenges through the following links: