According to a 2009 article published on the "PLoS Medicine Journal," many deaths in the U.S. could easily be prevented by making lifestyle changes. For example, 216,000 people die every year from obesity-related problems, 102,000 die from problems related to high dietary salt and 82,000 die from problems connected with consuming too much trans fats. Making smart dietary choices can not only keep you healthy, but also keep you alive.
Eating for Health
Diet is intimately connected to health. The right choice of food will ensure you get enough nutrients to keep you strong and healthy. For example, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables will give your body a good supply of vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is essential to maintain the health of your eyes and to fight free radicals, which can age your cells and cause cellular damage. Vitamin C helps with the health of your teeth and gums. Eating a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats such as olive oil can keep your heart healthy, your energy levels high and make you more resistant to infections and illnesses.
Eating for Weight Loss
Eating well can help keep your weight under control. Obesity can cause or worsen asthma, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gallstones and diabetes. Being overweight also can make you more likely to suffer from depression. By making healthy food choices, you can help keep your weight under control, or even shed pounds if you're already overweight. The key to healthy weight loss is making healthy choices. Rather than going on extreme diets, choose the best option available, such as picking low-fat dairy over full fat and giving up white bread and sweets in favor of whole grains.
Exercise and Fitness
According to the "PLoS Medicine Journal" article, 1 in 10 deaths is connected to physical inactivity. Lack of exercise affects the health of your cardiovascular system and makes it more likely you'll become overweight. If you don't exercise, you might lose flexibility and become more prone to injuries when performing physical activities.
Exercise and Stress
Stress can lead to a number of health problems, from headaches and insomnia to stroke, high blood pressure and anxiety. Exercising on a regular basis can help you battle stress, reduce anxiety and help you lower your chances of experiencing other health problems. Regular exercise improves your mood and helps your body release endorphins, the feel-good hormones that help you battle stress.
References
- Life Clinic: Vitamin A
- Life Clinic: Vitamin C
- Kids Health: Health Problems of Being Overweight
- "PLoS Medicine Journal"; "The Preventable Causes of Death in the United States: Comparative Risk Assessment of Dietary, Lifestyle, and Metabolic Risk Factors"; Goodarz Danaei et al; April 2009
- MayoClinic.com: Get Moving to Combat Stress
- BBC News: Stress
Member Comments