Throughout this book I’ve been leaving you with my Bottom Line to help you safely navigate confusing medical decisions. I truly believe staying healthy is really pretty simple—not necessarily easy, but definitely not complicated.
I know it can be hard to get answers you can trust. Hopefully, if you follow my advice you will understand the principles of good health, from how good nutrition and staying physically and mentally active can set you on the path toward a longer life, to bigger concerns like how to find a doctor you can really talk with and what to do when illness strikes. They will, in turn, help you make better decisions about your well-being.
Throughout this book, my only goal has been to provide information that will empower you to improve your health. I also hope the advice I have provided helps you become a more educated consumer, especially when it comes to spending your money on products with claims that are too good to be true. Not only am I not trying to sell you anything, but much of the advice I’m giving you will save you money. There are a lot of things you invest in with the hopes of better health that simply don’t deliver. Even though someone else is taking something, it doesn’t mean it’s right for you. When it comes to managing your care, don’t be afraid to question why something you might not need is being prescribed or why a test is being recommended. Conversely, if you don’t think you are getting adequate care, don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and have your physicians explain why they did not choose a particular treatment.
Remember, you can always find me on the air and online. If you’ve got something on your mind, I’m sure there are thousands of people with a similar question. I’ll do my best to address it on one of our programs, on Facebook, or during one of my weekly Twitter chats. You’ll find those by following me on Twitter at @DrRichardBesser or on Facebook at Dr. Richard Besser.
I leave you with my top ten Dr. B’s Bottom Line list. These are the most important actions that you can do to stay healthy. Maintaining health is a lifelong commitment; it doesn’t happen all at once. Pick one thing and make a small change toward a longer and healthier life. Then pick another and another. Before you know it you will be reaping the rewards. And that’s the truth.
1. Eat a high-fiber, low-fat diet based primarily on plants. Remember, there are no bad foods, just those to eat in moderation.
2. Make exercise and movement a part of your life.
3. Don’t smoke.
4. Know your family history.
5. Get vaccinated.
6. Find a doctor you can trust, while you are healthy.
7. Get a second opinion if you are sick.
8. Have friends and keep social.
9. Get enough sleep.
10. Own your health. It’s your body and your life.
11. Decide what is important to you.