Healthy Lifestyle :” Should I be concerned about my lifestyle?”
1. Nutrition: The raw material for the Body.
The food we consume serve as the necessary raw material for our daily body needs. Supplying the body with good “raw materials” will positively impact the outcome.
Key Scientific Findings:
Micronutrients Matter: Vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium, are part of the crucial raw material supply that the body needs to perform at it’s maximum ability.
Gut-Brain Axis:
In order for the body to process and utilize the provided “ raw materials” effectively, the gut has to be healthy. Fiber rich food and natural probiotics such as plain yogurt will help maintain good gut health.
The recommended approach is to follow the 80/20 rule. With 80% of the diet consisting of healthy ,nutritional food and 20 % for a “once in a while diet cheat”.
2. Physical Activity: start moving.
Regular exercise contributes significantly to the overall health, this includes both physical and mental health. In general, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly is good enough to positively impact on your health. The overall muscle strength, bone density ,joint stability and heart health improves with appropriate exercise.
Endorphin ( happy hormone) is also released during exercise and help reduce stress and symptoms of depression.
3. The power of a good sleep.
A good quality sleep allows the body systems to recover and also help with cognitive functioning. Where possible, aim for a minimum of 7 hours of quality sleep per night. Lack of sleep can also weaken the immune system, making it easy to fall ill.
Weight is also affected as lack of good quality sleep can affects hormones that regulate hunger, resulting in overeating .
4. Mental Health:
Chronic stress, anxiety and or depression can affect physical health.
Therapeutic Interventions: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and counseling effectively manage mental health challenges. Make a conscious decision to take care of your mental health.
5. Hydration: The underestimated power
Good hydration helps with:
-Brain Function
-Physical Performance
-Detoxification of the body.
On average , aim for 8–10 cups of water daily. This can be adjusted in cases of increased demands such as during hot seasons or exercise.
6. Preventive Care: Stay Ahead of illnesses
Routine check-ups that are tailored to your natural physiology and or chronic conditions are crucial. Speak to your health care professional to determine which kind of routine check-ups are necessary for you.
What now?
A healthy lifestyle is a combination of small good habits that add up over time .
What “smaller habit” do you want to adopt first in working towards the best your health can be.
Speak to your health care professional.