Lifestyle can be defined as the way someone lives and deals with their physical, psychological, social, and economic environment on a day-to-day basis. But when delving deeper into it, lifestyle extends beyond that, as it encompasses self-image – the way we view ourselves and are viewed by others. It involves motivations, needs, and wants and is influenced by numerous factors including social class, culture, and family.
Being healthy can be defined as the art of being in good condition, both physically and mentally. It aims to improve people’s well-being, leaving them fit, peppy, and with a strong immune system. A healthy lifestyle is a way of living that helps reduce the risk of diseases that can make one seriously ill or cause early death. Admittedly, not all diseases are preventable, but a large proportion of deaths, principally those related to coronary heart disease and lung cancer, can be avoided by leading a healthy lifestyle. There are various ways of improving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle including:
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Eating
As we all know, this is the process of putting food into the mouths for nutritional purposes. Generally, the body needs a continuous supply of nutrients provided by food to grow. These nutrients should come from a balanced diet, which contains all 6 six classes of food (carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water) for the maintenance of a healthy body, as deficiency or excess of even one class can lead to diseases. You are also advised to monitor food intake to prevent obesity and other weight-related diseases.
Exercising
Exercising is any movement that works your body at a greater intensity than your usual level of daily activity. It raises your heart rate and works your muscles, and is most commonly undertaken to achieve physical fitness. Continuous intake of food without adequate exercise leads to weight gain, which increases the risk of diabetes. Adequate exercise for the average human is said to be 150 hours a week.
Sleeping
Sleeping is the process of being in a relaxed state completely unaware of one’s surroundings. It is the state of temporary limbo. It is pertinent to point out that all the body systems are still fully functional while asleep. The benefits of adequate sleep are often underestimated by those who don’t know them. Metabolism causes the decline and rejuvenation of cellular tissue and the body’s self-repair takes place while one is asleep. Memory consolidation and digestion also occur during this stretch of abridged physical activity. Seven to nine hours of sleep each night is considered a must for a healthy lifestyle.
Reducing Stress
Stress is a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances. The human body responds to everyday stress with a release of hormones, and if one doesn’t relieve this state of being stressed through relaxation, the effects build and can create symptoms such as muscular pain, headaches, and sleep disturbances. Stress can be reduced through various techniques such as stretching, massage, yoga, or enjoyable exercise. Connecting with friends and family to get rid of mental burdens, taking time out to read, pursuing a hobby, and participating in activities that make you feel good are also recognized ways to reduce stress.
A healthy lifestyle is paramount for a long life, and it’s something every human should endeavor to achieve. Aside from the above, a healthy lifestyle can also be achieved by doing the following:
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Discuss with your doctor whether or not you need any medicine to help you stay healthy. This might include medicine to control high blood pressure, treat osteoporosis, or lower cholesterol.
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