A healthy lifestyle is multi-faceted, with components that include proper diet, physical activity, drinking habits and other behavioral choices. Good choices can positively impact various aspects of your health. Prior to making any major changes in your lifestyle, talk with a healthcare provider who can give you added guidance and support.
Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking is difficult because of the addictive properties of nicotine, but it can be done. According to the American Cancer Society, smoking causes one in five deaths in the United States, and approximately 8.6 million Americans live with smoking-related lung and heart diseases. Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of developing certain types of cancers, lung diseases, heart attack, stroke, blindness and miscarriage. No matter how long you have smoked cigarettes, quitting can make you healthier and increase your lifespan.
Minimize Sun Exposure
Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer diagnosed, accounting for nearly half the cancers diagnosed in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Unprotected and excessive exposure to the sun is a major risk factor for developing skin cancer, and minimizing your exposure can help reduce your risk of developing the disease. If you have to go out in the sun, it is best to avoid it during the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are the strongest. Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of at least 15. Avoiding tanning beds can also reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Stay Physically Active
A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to obesity and illness, but becoming and staying physically active can provide many health benefits. The American Heart Association states that physical inactivity is a major contributor to coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, high triglycerides and obesity. Even moderate exercise like brisk walking performed for at least 30 minutes on most or all days of the week can improve health. Physical activity improves your fitness level, increases endurance, builds muscle and reduces stress and feelings of depression.
Minimize Alcohol Use
If you drink alcohol, keep its use to a minimum. Moderate alcohol consumption does offer a few health benefits, but too much can cause health problems. The Mayo Clinic states that moderate amounts of alcohol can reduce the risk of developing heart disease or dying of a heart attack, lower the risk of gallstones and possibly reduce the risk of having a stroke or developing diabetes. More research needs to be done on the benefits of alcohol, and not everyone may benefit. Moderate consumption of alcohol is defined by the Mayo Clinic as a maximum of three drinks per occasion or seven drinks per week for women. For healthy men 65 years of age or younger, a maximum of four drinks per occasion or 14 drinks per week is considered moderate. For men 66 years of age or older, three drinks per occasion or seven drinks per week is moderate consumption.
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