Healthy Living News & Tips

Watch out, you may be asked to pay more for your company's health insurance plan if you're out of shape.

More and more companies are taking a controversial approach by 'encouraging' employees to get fit by lowering their deductibles if they pass a yearly physical fitness test. If they don't, they pay a much larger deductible.

Would you get in better shape to save thousands every your on your health insurance?

I think this is a brilliant plan since it rewards those that are healthier and file fewer claims. Until now, everyone pays the same regardless of their physical health.

It's simple economics... and it works. For example, in the video below, you'll see how an Arkansas county saved over $1.5 million dollars in a year and half after implementing the new plan. When they started, they were in the red half a million dollars. It shows how an economic incentive can help make lifestyle changes and benefit everyone.

In times when health care costs are skyrocketing, this type of incentive is badly needed... and it's a win-win situation. Overweight employees lose weight, feel better, have more energy and are more productive. They also add years to their life and most likely live better quality lives at home.

Initially many employees find this an intrusion and violation of their rights. After going through the program for some time, they seem to appreciate the benefits for themselves and their employer.

To your best health!

Mark

Get tips on how to save money on your health insurance at YourHealthInsurance.com

I was pleasantly surprised to see this interview with Health Magazine clinical nutritionist Samantha Heller on CBS provide wise advise on losing weight. Watch for the new technology that helps you 'see' or visualize yourself thinner. Personally I think it's a powerful tool for those looking to release some extra weight.

To your best health!

Mark

P.S. Seeing your goals on a regular basis is a powerful way to reach them. I recommend the easy to use tools at MindMovies to create your future and reach your goals whether it's to gain better health, release weight, buy a new house or retire. And check out the movie below!

I don't always agree with Bill Maher but on his show recently he talked about the health crisis we have in the United States... and he made sense. Watch:

Bill is right on here. As I've been saying for years, the solution isn't another pill, it's what you put into your body, on your body and what you do with your body that will determine how healthy you'll be.

There is no magic pill as the pharmaceutical industry or government would make you believe. And no, the government is not here to take care of you.

The only answer is to take responsibility for your own health by eliminating all processed foods, toxins, drugs and concentrating on as much fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and natural grains in their natural state, preferably organically grown as possible. Stay active and maintain a positive outlook.

We can encourage others to do this as well and 'vote' with your dollars by buying healthy foods and avoiding the junk. Share this with your schools, friends, co-workers, church members, family... anyone you can. If enough do this, the junk will go away because of simple economics, no one will buy it.

To your best health!

Mark

P.S. You can start by 'voting' with your own dollars and selecting healthy snacks and food for your family. Learn more.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown took a step in the right direction Monday when he announced a new initiative where schools would increase the number of physical fitness programs weekly. This comes on the heels of a report that a full 50% of Britons will be obese in 25 years if current trends continue. I agree with the schools comments that this is a good idea, although more importantly is what parents do at home. Studies have confirmed that parents are the primary influence in children's lives and the best thing to do is to be a good example and teach them proper eating and activity habits including eating a diet of primarily fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and natural grains.