CNN's Anderson Cooper answered criticisms from Rush Limbaugh with some health advice for the cigar-loving, often-sedentary radio host.

Limbaugh responded to reports of lower CNN ratings by saying on his show that Cooper may be spending too much time in bars, restaurants and the gym.

"I swear. That guy is reported more in gossip columns to be at the gym, or that bar, or restaurant, than he is at the studio," Limbaugh said.

Said Cooper on his CNN show Thursday: "I don't know if you noticed, but he spoke for quite a while there didn't call me a slut even one time. Now, I don't have my Rush-to-English dictionary handy, but I'm pretty sure that means we're best friends now."

Cooper said he rarely goes to restauarants or bars, but conceded that he does go to the gym -- and suggested Limbaugh do the same. He also poked Limbaugh for his apparent interest in gossip columns.

"I'm concerned about heart disease, I've raised money to fight heart disease, my dad died of it. And yeah, I try to take care of myself. Mr. Limbaugh, I can only hope that you're taking care of yourself as well. You might try the gym from time to time. It really is something you can incorporate into your life pretty seamlessly," he said.

"As a matter of fact, most gyms now have TVs. You can prop up reading material on the cardio equipment. So you can put, like, I don't know, The National Enquirer right there on the elliptical, crank up the volume on Access Hollywood, and get your research done, at the same time you're improving your big heart."

Watch the video (at the gym, if you want):