Most of the topics we present on our site concern personal finance and retirement planning issues. I visit a lot of financial websites each week for insight and tips to share with readers of RetirementThink. But the fact is, a "healthy retirement" really does start with a healthy lifestyle. It will be tough to "super size" your retirement savings without paying attention to diet and exercise. Bankrate.com explains the health and wealth connection.

Certified Financial Planner Barbara O'Neill experienced an "aha" moment when she listened to a lecture on nutrition delivered by registered dietician Karen Ensle. The two have since collaborated on the book "Small Steps to Health and Wealth," the result of her epiphany. You can read their book online at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension Web site.

Small Steps To Health And Wealth online book site.

Many people believe they must make major lifestyle changes to be healthy and wealthy. So, instead, they “freeze” and do nothing. A 2004 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release alluded to the importance of just getting started: “America needs to get healthier one small step at a time. Each small step does make a difference, whether it’s taking the stairs, instead of an elevator, or snacking on fruits and vegetables instead of greasy chips or sugary foods. The more steps we can take, the further down the road we will be toward better health for ourselves and our families.” Similarly, some people fear never having “enough” money saved for retirement because they’ve seen gloomy reports about unprepared retirees needing seven-figure sums. However, any positive change (e.g., saving $1 a day or 1% more of one’s salary) is better than none. The trick is to get started today.