According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than a quarter of adults are not just overweight, but obese; about 10 percent of them have diabetes on the eastern half of the U.S. It is also suggested that the projected lifespan of the next generation will be shorter than their parents’.

Other nations experience far better health rates than the U.S. The U.S. only ranks 50th for life expectancy compared to other countries. Unless you are planning to move to Japan, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Australia, or Italy, which are at the moment the top five nations for the highest life expectancy rates, then sooner or later you will have to think about how your are going to make changes to your current lifestyle. This is not only to prolong your life, but maybe even raise the country to a much more comfortable place on the life expectancy chart.

What we don’t realize in the U.S. is that it may seem like we aren’t spending much money on our healthcare system but we actually are. We spend more of our gross domestic product than any other country on healthcare, yet we have poor health. The World’s Data Bank shows that National health expenditure totaled 17.6% of GDP in 2009, up from 5% in 1960 and 7% in 1970.

Americans need to realize that while yes, we do have capable doctors to go to for help, we fail to realize that doctors are there for treatment most of the time and it is up to you to take the time to learn about prevention. Don’t let it become a problem unless it is out of your control, and it is certainly in your control to take the steps to a longer, fuller life.

It is never too late to change your habits and by establishing a healthy lifestyle now, you’ll continue to reap the rewards in the future. These four tips given by BBC Health will help you begin your new journey.

Keeping Fit –You don’t have to slog it out in a sweaty gym to maintain your fitness. Simply boosting your levels of general daily activity can massively improve your health and energy. Just understand the importance of exercise. If you can find out the right time as well as the correct exercises for your body, you are halfway there.

Diet and Fitness Plan – It is important to find a tailored diet and fitness program based on expert advice even though it isn’t always necessary depending on the current condition of your health. Remember to always let your doctor or physician approve of the right plan for you before you begin any diets.

Your Weight – From losing weight to gaining and maintaining, it is always important to realize that with the scares we are bombarded with about weight. From size zero to the ‘obesity epidemic’, what is healthy is determined by different factors for each person.

Nutrition – A good diet is central to good health, so take the time to learn the different food groups, dietary requirements, and life stages your body needs throughout your lifetime.

Remember, a healthy lifestyle is important, no matter how much your doctor loves medications. No amount of medication can substitute for a good well-rounded meal and exercise regimen. It’s a healthy lifestyle, not a diet; so don’t be too scared to making those changes now.