Healthy is something that looks very different for everyone as it’s a state of mind, body and emotions. Having good health is a life goal for many people and the way that we live our lives plays an important role in how healthy we are. It is a balance between doing the things that make us feel good and avoiding the things that don’t.
It’s a good idea to start making healthful choices, especially for the ones that we can control, as early as possible in life. It will not only lead to better health in the long run, but it’ll also help us avoid diseases and conditions that can be caused by our unhealthy habits.
According to the World Health Organisation, a person’s health is defined as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’. This can be seen in the way that some people with chronic conditions, such as diabetes or back pain, manage their symptoms with medication and physiotherapy, and yet are still considered to be healthy because they don’t have a disease like cancer.
A healthy lifestyle is often associated with a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, a moderate level of stress, and a supportive network of family and friends. It can help to reduce the risk of certain diseases, lengthen our lifespans, save us money on medical bills and even benefit the environment.
People often think that living a healthy lifestyle is hard, but it doesn’t have to be. It can be as simple as swapping one refined food for a whole grain, or adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet. If you’re struggling to find ways of improving your health, it may be worth speaking to a GP or registered dietitian who can offer support and advice.
While it may seem obvious that healthy people don’t smoke or drink to excess, there are many other factors that influence your overall health and wellbeing, such as your work-life balance, financial situation, mental wellness, relationships, location and even your genes. A healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be perfect, so don’t put yourself under pressure to make big changes straight away.
Instead, try adding in one improvement at a time, and then repeat this every two months until you have made all the small changes that can add up to a healthier lifestyle. This will give you the best chance of success and you’ll see that it’s not as difficult as you thought! You can also ask a doctor or nurse for advice, as they may be able to refer you to other professionals who can offer further help and support. For more information about healthy eating, visit the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a U.S government website, and The Harvard Diet. You can also visit our page about how to live a healthy lifestyle. It will be very helpful to you. Thanks for reading!