According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. is on the brink of a longevity revolution. By 2030, one in every five Americans will be over the age of 65.

So what can adults do now to ensure they continue to enjoy a great lifestyle in their later years? Dr. Carl Hastings, chief scientific officer of Reliv International, offers some advice.

“Many people tend to assume that diminished health and activity is an inevitable part of getting old, but this is simply not the case,” Hastings said. “There are ways to improve your quality of life as you age that can actually have a positive impact on your lifespan.”

For people in their 40s:

•Eating breakfast jump-starts the metabolism, which begins to slow down as one ages. Even something small, like fruit or yogurt, can help maintain weight and ward off cravings later in the day.

•Vitamin D is crucial to enhancing immune function. Fortified foods and exposure to sunlight can boost intake; however, a supplement is often needed.

For those in their 50s:

•Catch some zzzzzs. When a person skimps on sleep, the body interprets it as stress, which inevitably wreaks havoc on the immune system. Aim for a solid seven to nine hours of shut-eye every night.

•Take a multivitamin. The body’s capacity to absorb nutrients declines with age, so an older person might not actually be processing all of the vitamins from the food they consume. Take a multivitamin that meets the daily requirements. Powdered forms that can be used in smoothies or shakes are more readily absorbed than pills and are a tasty choice.

For those in their 60s: •Get moving. Exercise of any kind, even walking, is crucial to prevent bone loss and to increase oxygen intake. Try to move for at least 30 minutes on most days.

•Get plenty of fiber. In addition to improving digestive health, a high-fiber diet has been proven to fight cardiovascular disease. Keep the heart healthy by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole (not refined) grains.

“Many people feel that as they age it’s natural for them to rely on medications and medical intervention to maintain their health,” Hastings said. “But what can be more natural than taking care of your body with healthy food, highquality supplements and a good dose of exercise? These ingredients form the recipe for a long, healthy life.” This story is provided by Reliv International.