Staying healthy does not have to be complicated or expensive. Instead, it involves living a lifestyle that emphasizes wellness and minimizes harmful behavior, such as cigarette smoking. Because there are many opportunities to avoid an exercise session or choose an unhealthy meal, staying healthy means making a commitment to your health. Your dedication and determination toward maintaining your well-being will be rewarded with improved energy levels.
1. Do Not Smoke
Smoking can contribute to a number of chronic health conditions, including heart disease and cancer. The same is true for all tobacco-containing products. Secondhand smoke should also be avoided.
2. Keep Immunizations Updated
Immunizations not only help keep you healthy, they also help to keep the general population healthy by stopping the progressive spread of disease. While you may have received most necessary immunizations as a child, you should receive a tetanus shot every 10 years, according to the University of Cincinnati.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean proteins. These foods contain vitamins and minerals that help to protect your heart and bones. Avoid sugars and high-cholesterol foods.
4. Exercise Regularly
Engaging in physical exercise helps to burn calories, keeps your lungs and heart healthy and reduces your blood pressure, according to the University of Cincinnati. Exercise between 30 to 60 minutes four days per week.
5. Undergo Health Screenings
Regular cancer screenings can help to detect cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages, according to the Federal Citizen Information Center. Ask your physician what tests you need based on your overall health and family history.
6. Drink in Moderation
Consuming excess amounts of alcohol can damage the liver and pancreas, according to the University of Cincinnati. Alcohol consumption also can lead to depression and alcoholism---two conditions that severely affect your overall health.
7. Undergo Regular Blood Pressure Checks
Knowing your blood pressure numbers can help to assess your overall health and risk for conditions such as heart disease. This test can be conducted quickly and painlessly, but should be read by a health care professional, according to University of Cincinnati.
8. Get Enough Sleep
Lack of sleep can lead to difficulty concentrating throughout your day, anxiety and other adverse health conditions, according to the Times Online. Aim for between seven to nine hours of sleep per night.
9. Undergo an Annual Physical
Your annual physical allows you to address any health concerns with your physician as well as be tested for any pertinent health conditions, such as high blood pressure or cholesterol.
10. Take Your Aspirin
Men older than age 40 and women older than age 50 should take an aspirin once a day to reduce their heart disease risk, according to ABC News. Ask your doctor is aspirin therapy is right for you.
Member Comments
NHisler April 14
This is a great article! Being healthy does not have to be complicated. I love finding healthy living tips that I can use every day!