The decisions that you make in life have a direct impact on your health. Wellness is an ongoing process, but there are lifestyle choices that can help you get healthy now and encourage lasting healthy habits.
According to the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP), 60 percent of U.S. adults have a chronic disease; 40 percent of American adults have two or more chronic diseases.
Chronic disease leads to death, disability, and financial burden. The NCCDPHP states that the main contributors to the United States’ $3.5 trillion annual health care costs are
- heart disease
- cancer
- chronic lung disease
- stroke
- Alzheimer’s disease
- diabetes
- chronic kidney disease.
These are also among the leading causes of death and disability in the U.S.
While you can’t always prevent health issues, there are lifestyle choices that can lower your risk for various chronic diseases. Healthy living improves your quality of life, and in many cases a healthy lifestyle can prevent or delay the development of chronic disease.
The decisions you make now affect your health in the future — some healthy lifestyle changes can make an immediate impact on your health. Click To TweetWays to get healthy now
The sooner that you start making healthy lifestyle choices, the greater the health benefits. However, it’s never too late to make positive changes in your life and improve your health; some lifestyle changes can make an immediate impact on your health.
Stop using tobacco
There is no safe way to use tobacco. Smoking, vaping, and smokeless forms of tobacco all come with health risks including nicotine addiction, cancer, and heart disease.
Giving up tobacco can be difficult. Smoking cessation counseling can help you quit for good.
Start moving
There are several health benefits that come with regular physical activity. Adults need at least 30 minutes of physical activity every single day, but this should be viewed as the minimum rather than the end goal. Moving more increases the health benefits that you receive.
Give up alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol has negative health consequences — both immediate and long-term. Alcohol dependence, heart disease, cancer, and depression are just a few of the risks associated with drinking alcohol in excess.
If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation — up to one drink per day. It’s not recommended that you start drinking alcohol if you do not currently drink.
Drink more water
Replace sugary drinks and carbonated beverages with plain water. Your body needs water to stay hydrated and function properly. Drinking water can also help your body manage a healthy weight, regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, absorb nutrients, and remove waste.
Address stress
Stress is a normal response to many circumstances, and it can be useful in small amounts. However, chronic stress can have a negative effect on your health and your happiness. Manage stress and know when to talk to a mental health professional for stress, anxiety, or depression.
Sleep
People tend to undervalue the importance of sleep, and sleep is often sacrificed for work or play. Adults need seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Getting adequate sleep helps increase focus and improve your mood and immune response.
Limit naps and establish a regular sleep routine to help make sure you get good quality sleep.
Talk to your doctor
Your appearance doesn’t tell the whole story. You can’t know that you’re in good health simply by stepping on a scale or looking in a mirror.
A primary care physician helps you understand your current health status and provide guidance on improving your health and working towards wellness.
Scheduling annual wellness exams is a simple way to take control of your health. Request an appointment with a MANA physician today.