Well y’all, for the past several weeks, I’ve been chatting with the brilliant—and very single—David Meinz (just tossing that in there in case you know somebody). We’ve been diving deep into how we can live our best and healthiest lives. And yes, before you ask, we filmed it all at once. So if you see me wearing the same outfit? That’s called efficiency with a dash of Southern hospitality.

Now let’s talk about what really matters: staying healthy without becoming a slave to a handful of pills.

The Cholesterol Conversation (Spoiler: It’s Not the Villain Anymore)

You’ve probably been told to avoid cholesterol in food like it’s the devil in deviled eggs—but guess what? David busted that myth wide open.

For 98% of folks, eating cholesterol (like in egg yolks) doesn’t actually raise blood cholesterol. Let me say that again louder for the people in the back: eating an egg won’t give you a heart attack.

So if cholesterol isn’t the problem, what is?

Inflammation: The Real Culprit

Turns out, the big, bad wolf isn’t cholesterol—it’s inflammation, often caused by high blood sugar and insulin levels. This low-grade inflammation builds silently in your blood vessels, increasing your risk for those “surprise” heart attacks and strokes.

So Why Take a Statin?

Most people think statins are just cholesterol-lowering drugs. But David calls them what they really are: inflammation fighters. That’s why he’s been taking one for over a decade—specifically Livalo (generic name: Pitavastatin). It’s gentle on the muscles, unlike some statins that leave you feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck full of bricks.

If you’ve had trouble with statins before, this one might be worth asking your doctor about.

Flex That Heart—Literally

Exercise isn’t just about bikini season (although we do love a good beach hat moment). It’s one of the best ways to fight inflammation and control insulin. David recommends:

150 minutes of cardio per week
That’s just 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Walk, dance, garden—move however you like!

Add in strength training
Especially for us ladies over a certain fabulous age. Think squats, lunges, bicep curls—just enough to keep your muscles strong and your metabolism revved. No, you will not bulk up like a bodybuilder. You’ll just feel better and age with power.

Make It Fun, Make It Convenient

David’s secret weapon? A piece of exercise equipment in front of the TV. Yep—he watches movies while he works out. If exercise is both fun and convenient, you’re way more likely to do it.

No need for a marathon, sugar. Just get that heart rate up and your body moving!

Ready to Learn More?

David’s book, “10 Bonus Years: How You Can Add 10 Healthy Years to Your Life,” is packed with easy-to-understand steps. Because nobody wants 10 extra years if it means being stuck in a recliner with three remote controls and no energy.

You can find it at booksbydavid.net

But wait, there’s more…

He also launched a six-month online course—12 modules, 14 hours of content, all designed to help you improve your health and live better, longer. Check it out at 10bonusyears.com. Watch the free webinar, and if it clicks with you, you can even set up a free one-on-one call with David.

Bring David to Your Church or Conference!

David isn’t just a brainiac—he’s also a gifted speaker. If you’re planning a wellness event or know someone who is, reach out to him through davidmeinz.com. He’s helped folks all across South Carolina and beyond, and he can do the same for your group.

Y’all, we’re not just talkin’ about living longer—we’re talking about living better. Health span over lifespan. More joy, more energy, and more sweet tea (unsweet, if we’re watching our sugar).

So go ahead—flex those muscles, fight that inflammation, and grab those bonus years!

Jane isn’t just a funny lady; she’s an accomplished storyteller. With five award-winning books to her name, Jane’s tales of Southern life and laughter resonate far and wide. Her latest gem, Sweet Tea Secrets from the Deep-Fried South, isn’t just a best-seller—it’s proudly featured in Cracker Barrel stores across the nation. And as a first-time novelist, Jane’s story has taken on a new life, becoming a film. She has recently been cast as a suporting actor in a film to be released in the spring of 2026.

The post Fitness, Flexing, and Fighting Cholesterol (Without Losing Your Southern Sass) first appeared on Jane Jenkins Herlong.