Working out regularly and following a healthy diet are wise choices, as any doctor or health professional will attest. The advantages of doing so are numerous and have to do with mental health and energy in addition to physical well-being. However, there are also some notable cons to living healthfully. Though the long-term pros almost undoubtedly win out over the negatives, it's useful to know about both.
Lifestyle Cons
Keeping up a healthy fitness and eating regimen can prove disruptive to scheduling and a regular lifestyle routine. Busy schedules, lots of travel, overtime at work and family obligations are just a few of the significant factors that keep people from following healthy diets and working out on a regular basis. Maintaining healthy habits can also cut into free time, which feels undesirable.
Commitment Cons
Committing to diet and exercise is tough, especially because it isn't temporary. Even though almost any level of physical activity and healthy eating can make a positive difference in someone's life, the biggest benefits arise from a constant commitment to living healthfully every day. With the temptation of dozens of tasty doughnuts and lazy evenings with the couch and TV, sticking with a fitness plan can be a serious challenge that lots of people have trouble accomplishing. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends at least 150 minutes of weekly aerobic exercise supplemented by two strength-training sessions, and meeting even that minimum is a struggle for many people.
Health Benefits
Exercising and eating right have a myriad of benefits for health. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular exercise reduces the risk of serious conditions such as cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and osteoporosis. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases says that exercise can also lower the risk of heart disease and asthma. Eating a healthy diet is one habit that can significantly lower the risks of heart attack and stroke, according to the American Heart Association. Some reductions in disease risk may be due to the positive influence of a healthy diet and exercise on the immune system, the Cleveland Clinic says. Finally, healthy eating and exercise aid with weight loss and weight maintenance.
Mental Benefits
Eating well and getting regular physical activity also benefit people's mental health. The National Association of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases says that such healthy habits contribute to giving people more energy, helping them learn better and helping them stay alert. The Mayo Clinic says that exercise improves mood, may reduce stress, helps people sleep better and improves their sex lives.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Exercise--7 Benefits of Regular Physical Activity
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: WIN
- Cleveland Clinic: Diet, Exercise, Stress and the Immune System
- American Heart Association: Managing Blood Pressure with a Heart Healthy Diet
- American College of Sports Medicine: Physical Activity Guidelines
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