Addition By Subtraction

According to Dr. Robert J. Leon , cardiovascular disease specialist, patients in his office ask the question, "What vitamins or pill would you recommend to improve my health?" And his answer is always the same: addition by subtraction!  That's because Dr. Leon believes that before you add anything to your health routine your should take a hard look at what things can be taken away.  Below are Dr. Leon's tips:

1. If you smoke, nothing is more important than stopping this habit.  No amount of Pilate's or novel concoctions is likely to reverse the harm of nicotine.

2. If you are overweight, losing 10 pounds will have tremendous positive effects on your cardiovascular health, blood pressure, insulin levels and overall well being, not to mention the fact that you will feel better.

3. A simple 30-minute daily exercise regimen, which can be as simple as walking or as complex as circuit training, is invaluable in maintaining your overall health fitness.

4. If you have hypertension or diabetes , monitor your blood pressure or blood glucose levels.

5. If you suffer from stress, get a hobby or meet with friends to relax. 

6. You should read, do puzzles, or play chess to keep your mind sharp.  Turn off the TV and stimulate your mind in other ways.

If you said "yes" to questions 1 through 5 or  "no" to 6, don't think Dr. Leon can prescribe a magic pill.  You have some work to do. Then he can talk about vitamins.