Today is your day Boomer! Want some secrets from a local doctor who just turned 100 years old? According to Dr. W. Gifford of Penticton, BC, "take this to heart. Rule No. 1 for good health and longevity is to follow a sound lifestyle starting early in life. And Rule No. 2 is, never forget rule No. 1." With that philosophy in mind, he offers some common-sense health tips for readers like us Boomers. "1. Get regular exercise including aerobic and strength training to maintain physical and mental health. 2. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods, sugar, salt, and excess alcohol. 3. Manage stress using techniques that ease your mind, whether it be meditation and mindfulness, a workout, or a favourite comedy show. 4. Sleep well, enabling the body and mind to rest and recharge. 5. Schedule regular medical check-ups, especially to get access to screening tests that help identify and treat heath issues early on." The last tip certainly applies to me. If I hadn't had my annual in-person checkup with my doctor, my faulty heart valve would not have been discovered! A doctor on Zoom cannot listen to your heart and arteries. Basically, Dr. Gifford says we need to pro-active about our health and then maybe, just maybe.....we can live for a century too. Cheers!

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