Healthy is an adjective that describes someone who eats well, exercises regularly and takes good care of their body. However, it can also refer to a person’s mental and emotional well-being. There are many factors that determine your health, including age, family history and genetics. But the choices you make every day can have a big impact on your health and how long you live. Some of the best ways to stay healthy include:
Eating a balanced diet of lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables is essential for your body’s health. You should avoid consuming too much saturated and trans fat, added sugar and salt. It’s also important to get adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals.
Regular exercise can help reduce stress, boost mood and lower depression. Exercise can also increase the levels of hormones that promote feelings of wellbeing. Some great ways to exercise include walking, swimming, playing sports, yoga and dancing. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. If you’re unsure of how to start exercising, see a GP or fitness trainer for advice.
Getting enough sleep is essential for your body and mind to function properly. Getting a good night’s sleep can improve concentration, reduce your risk of illness and give you a more positive outlook on life. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime and sticking to a consistent sleep schedule.
A healthy lifestyle can help you feel your best, reduce the risk of some diseases and lengthen your lifespan. It can also save you money on medical bills and improve your quality of life.
There are many things you can do to be healthy, from eating a nutritious diet and getting plenty of exercise to avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive drinking. It’s important to remember that everyone’s definition of a healthy lifestyle is different, and you should tailor your lifestyle to meet your own personal goals and needs.
You may be tempted to compare yourself to other people and think you aren’t healthy enough, but this can lead to feelings of inadequacy and depression. Instead, focus on the steps you are taking towards a healthier lifestyle and celebrate your successes. Whether it’s cutting back on soda or swapping out refined carbohydrates for whole grains, small changes can add up over time.
This year we have taken a look at the latest science and research on nutrition, exercise, mental health and sleep to bring you our 2024 Healthy Living Guide. Read on for top tips and insights, from the latest findings on ultra-processed foods to turning up the tunes for a workout and evidence on different sleep “chronotypes”. Our Healthy Living Guide is available in both print and digital formats. Find out more and order your copy here.