Common sense keeps man healthy into 80s

Dear Dr. Gott: I thought you would appreciate a different kind of letter for a change.

I am an 86-year-old man who does not have a primary physician. I see my urologist every four years and my ophthalmologist, periodontist and dentist every six months.

I take only one prescription medicine – to control glaucoma.

In over 30 years (except for a 2 1/2-week bout with bronchitis) I have not had as much as a headache.

I eat 12 vegetables and six fruits every day. I also eat about 5 ounces of various meats.

In addition, I have shredded wheat and bananas (no milk; I’m lactose intolerant) and Raisin Bran with an extra handful of raisins, strawberries and peaches every day. Two or three times a month, I have a slice of flourless sesame bread.

I enjoy my 3-ounce vodka martini with a handful of roasted peanuts in the evening.

I do not use butter or salt. I never eat sweets, such as candy, ice cream, cake, cookies, pies, tarts, puddings, etc. I take vitamins C, E, D, calcium with vitamin D, zinc, alfalfa and lutein. In fact, I have never had an Oreo cookie.

My weakness is salty items like potato chips, pretzels, corn chips, etc. This is probably due to the fact that I never use salt and my body craves it.

I never buy these items, so I am not tempted.

I’ve worked out all my life. At one time I weighed 197 pounds and had a beautiful body with 16 1/2-inch arms. Today I weigh 158 pounds and am 5 feet 10 inches tall. I work out on a Bowflex machine two to three hours a week.

One of my cardinal rules is never to touch food until I’ve washed my hands. I think having clean hands has saved me from many a cold.

I usually start singing when I get up in the morning, sing off and on throughout the day and most often go to bed singing. I have a chocolate Labrador dog and a common-variety cat, and I dote on both of them.

Dear Reader: Your letter is so upbeat that I have to publish it in its entirety. What a message!

Despite your age, you have enjoyed good health, in large part, I suspect, because of your commitment to healthful dietary practices and the fact that you are physically active, far more than the average octogenarian.

The most important aspect of your lifestyle is, in my opinion, common sense and sensible food practices. A healthful diet and exercise often improve health in adults.

Good luck and best wishes.