Simply living a long life in not enough, staying independent and healthy till your last day is what is more important. No one likes to be dependent on someone else for simple things in life.

To live beyond 70 or basically to live long, taking care of your health earlier in life is very important. You need to start as early as possible and not wait till you are at an age where your bones begin to ache and normal mobility is affected.

To live long and healthy, nutrition is very important. What you eat, determines how you will live. So at 16 or an age close to that eating 2 candy bars and a packet of chips could give you the energy to survive through the day, but you need to sit back and think of the damage you are putting your body through.

When we have age on our side, everything is good and functions smoothly, because our bodies are stronger. But think of it like this, our bodies are a place where we can store the nutrients and energy that we will need in the future. If we keep eating junk food, we are basically storing nothing but trash.

Try eating healthy at least 4 to 5 times a week; include lean protein, complex carbohydrates, nutrients like iron and calcium in your daily diet. Use the weekends to enjoy yourself and indulge if you want to. All of us need a break!

Stop believing that only junk food tastes good! That is old school; look for healthy but yummy recipes that will take the boredom out of eating healthy.

The other important thing is exercise. It helps the body burn off the toxins and unnecessary calories and keeps you fit. A heavy gym workout is not required, a simple walk or jog for 45 minutes everyday can give you equal amount of benefits.

Go for regular health check ups after you turn 30. This can help you diagnose any health condition in its early stages, and can help give it the required medical attention.

Be happy and think positive, it helps you go a long way.