Seven Tips For Healthy Living

Nutrition
What you eat and drink and what you don’t eat and drink can definitely make a difference to your health. Eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day and less saturated fat can help improve your health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers and other chronic diseases. Excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor for many health problems.

Healthy Weight
Obesity is at an all time high in the United States, and the epidemic may be getting worse. Those who are overweight or obese have increased risks for diseases and conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, and may be at increased risk for certain cancers.

Exercise
According to the CDC, more than 50 percent of American men and women do not get enough physical activity to provide health benefits. For adults, thirty minutes of moderate physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week is recommended. It doesn't take a lot of time or money, but it does take commitment.

Tobacco Use
Health concerns associated with using tobacco include cancer and lung disease. Smoking triples the risk of dying from heart disease among those who are middle-aged. Second-hand smoke - smoke that you inhale when others smoke - also affects your health. Though it can be a challenge, quitting is one of the best ways to improve your health.

Routine Exams And Screenings
Based on your age, health history, lifestyle, and other important issues, you and your health care provider can determine how often you need to be examined and screened for certain diseases and conditions. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, sexually transmitted diseases, and cancers of the skin, prostate, and colon. When problems are found early, your chances for treatment and cure are better. Routine exams and screenings can help save lives.

Stress Management
Perhaps now more than ever before, stress poses a threat to your health. Balancing obligations to your employer, your family, and your friends can be challenging. Protect your mental and physical health by engaging in activities that help you manage your stress at work and at home.

Safety First
According to the CDC, the third leading cause of death for American men is “unintentional injuries.” Fastening seat belts, applying sunscreen, wearing helmets, and installing smoke detectors are all ways of avoiding unintended injuries. In fact, everything from washing your hands to practicing safe sex can help protect you and your loved ones. So it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and others wherever you are.