Television personality and AZfoothills.com columnist Nadine Toren is scouring the area, finding savvy Valley features, bringing readers “on the scene.” Every day she’ll introduce you to celebrities, athletes, and give you an inside look into local events and hot spots. She'll touch on topical issues, and keep AZ fans posted on all the big talkers around town.

We all want to live long and look good, so what's the magic recipe in doing so?  Here's the healthy must-try menu to help conserve your youthful physique.

All in one week…the President turns 50 and Dame Helen Mirren is dubbed LA Fitness’s sexiest female of 2011. 

Yep, instead of J-Lo’s boastful booty or Angelina’s enticing eyes, the aged Academy Award winner is being applauded for her fit physique; quite interesting, considering the actress is 66-years old. 

And Oh Obama—how he’s aged during his reign so far.  Just compare his recent pics to those from when he was campaigning for presidency.  His hair is significantly greyer, and you can tell the stressful job has taken a toll on his face.

However, our President is taking on the big 5-0 in stride, valuing exercise and a healthy diet.

So what’s the key to aging gracefully?  Luckily, the older you get, the less "grouchier' you are—that, according to a new study.  Research shows we become more emotionally stable after every birthday we celebrate.  And on a physical note, turns out you are in control of preserving goof health and your youthful look…all you have to do is eat the right foods.

I’ve done my due diligence, looking into must-get groceries that will keep you on the A-list.  Also, these foods will help you live longer and can prevent life-threatening disease.  Here’s what I found.

First, go Greek.  Apparently people living near the Mediterranean regularly include olive oil, fish, veggies, whole grains, and the occasional glass of red wine in their daily intake.  Instead of salt, they rely on spices and herbs.  This Greek-like diet helps heart health, and can prevent certain cancers. 

And the Greeks have their head on straight incorporating olive oil in delectable dishes.  The tasty monosaturated fat helps boost your memory and actually contains a natural anti-inflammatory compound.  And E.V.O.O. can increase HDL especially in men; a good cholesterol that clears fat from blood vessel walls. 

And if you’re looking for some “brain food” make tuna or salmon your new BFF.  These fish have fatty acids known to support nervous system development.  They’ll also lower your risk of dementia and cholesterol levels. 

But if you’re all about beans, have at it with the fiber-rich food.  Eating chickpeas or beans help lower blood pressure, prevent constipation, and improve digestion.  And because they fill you up, this yummy food will help you lose weight. 

Ok, we’re all wary of carbs, but here’s a good one that will reduce your risk of cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.  Yep, we’re talking whole –grain breads, pasta, rice, and barley.  It’s a guilt-free way to fill up. 

And if you prefer cookies with milk, you’re in luck—just omit the cookies.  Drinking vitamin D dairy products strengthen your bones, preventing osteoporosis.  Yogurt is also known to aid digestion, as well as reduce the risk of colon, breast, and prostate cancer.