Health is a precious commodity. Too often, however, we don’t realize its value until it is slipping away from us. When I worked as an emergency medicine physician, I saw firsthand just how quickly and easily one’s health and life can be taken away. Accidents, injuries, and serious illnesses too often snatch health out of the hands of ordinary, well-intentioned people. Can we always prevent accidents and disease? No. But, can we dramatically improve our chances? An emphatic yes!

Interesting research on longevity has shown that Okinawa, Japan and Loma Linda, California have 2 of the highest rates of long life spans in the world. A city in Japan makes sense with eating more traditional diets with lots of fish, rice, and drinking green tea. But why Loma Linda? The answer is the number of 7th Day Adventists. You see, Loma Linda is home to many Adventists who, for example, don’t smoke, and they consume lots of fruits, vegetables, and nuts. In fact, 7th Day Adventists, on average, live 7 years longer than a typical Californian, extending life span from a typical 78 years to 85 years. Fewer cases of heart disease, cancer, and strokes are some of the additional benefits.