Healthy is a way of living that includes good nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, a positive mindset, and connection to friends and family. These habits contribute to a sense of well-being, and when combined can help reduce the risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, some cancers, and other health conditions.
Eating a healthy diet means primarily eating whole foods like vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and seeds, low-fat dairy, and lean protein sources like fish, poultry, eggs, and tofu. It also means avoiding foods that are highly processed, contain added sugars or salt, and are high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol. The goal is to fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits, one quarter with grains, and another quarter with protein. This can be accomplished by making simple changes to your diet, such as adding a fruit to breakfast or choosing a whole grain for dinner, and focusing on nutrient-dense foods.
The benefits of healthy living go beyond reducing the risk of serious illness. Good nutrition and regular exercise can boost energy levels, which can improve mood and allow you to better manage stress. Healthy habits can help you achieve balance in your life, so you’re able to make the most of your time and enjoy life.
Many factors can impact your health, including genetics and environmental influences. However, most of your health is under your control. Health is a process and takes time to develop. The most important thing is to start small, and work on incorporating healthy practices gradually. This can include starting with a walk after lunch, drinking water instead of soda, or journaling before bed. Each of these small steps can have a large impact on your health, and over time will help you create lasting change.
Health is a journey and the road to a long, happy, and fulfilling life may not always be easy. Fortunately, a healthy lifestyle can prevent and treat many of the leading causes of death, including heart disease and stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and certain types of cancer. It can also lead to a stronger, more resilient body that is better able to resist illnesses and recover from injury. The Australian Government’s Measuring What Matters framework defines health as: