Good nutrition is linked to improved health throughout life, lower risk of diseases and longer lives.
Water is necessary for normal bowel function and enhances skin and immune system function. Drink a glass of water with each meal.
The best wellness blogs avoid medicalese and talk to the reader like a friend. This Cleveland Clinic blog on winter asthma is a great example:
1. Eat Right
Eating right is one of the most important things you can do to keep healthy. Healthy eating is about choosing foods that will give you energy, like fruit and vegetables, whole grains and protein-rich sources, while limiting unhealthy fats, sugar and salt.
At the grocery store, read labels on packaged foods to make smart choices. At mealtimes, try to choose a variety of nutritious foods, such as lean meats, nuts and seeds, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products. Try to avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar, salt or saturated fat.
When you eat out, try to go for healthy options, such as salads with lots of veggies, fish or chicken and whole grain bread, and skip the high-fat sauces, such as gravies or dressings. At home, prepare meals using healthy cooking methods, such as roasting, baking or grilling instead of frying. If you have trouble finding time to cook, stock your pantry with healthy staples, such as canned tuna, frozen vegetables and nut butters. This will help make it easier to eat well on a busy schedule.
2. Sleep
The importance of getting a good night’s sleep cannot be overstated. It is essential to brain function, mood and physical health. It also plays a critical role in memory and learning. Without sufficient rest, people are more likely to suffer from emotional and mental disorders such as depression and anxiety.
The average person needs at least seven hours of sleep per night for optimal health. But many factors can interfere with a healthy night of rest, from stress and work responsibilities to medications and illnesses. But there are steps you can take to get more quality sleep, including setting a consistent sleep schedule and creating a comfortable bedtime routine.
A good mattress and pillows can make all the difference in a restful night. Tryptophan-rich foods like milk, turkey and pumpkin seeds are also helpful, as they promote the release of melatonin, which helps you fall asleep. Avoid caffeine, fatty and sugary foods, and alcoholic beverages in the hours leading up to sleep. Also, limit the use of technology in your bedroom, and try to eliminate distractions such as TVs, computers and cell phones.
If you are experiencing frequent or chronic sleep problems, see your doctor for a checkup. You may have a sleep disorder such as snoring or sleep apnea, which can have serious health implications. A physical examination and blood tests can help identify and treat sleep disorders.
Most people have experienced a sleepless night at one time or another. However, the effects of a poor night’s sleep on a regular basis can be much more detrimental to your health than occasional insomnia. In fact, long-term sleep deprivation is linked to an increased risk for coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, it can have a negative impact on your attitude and behavior. Sleep deprivation is sometimes called “a national epidemic” because so many of us are suffering from it. Luckily, if you take steps to improve your sleeping habits, you can overcome the problem and start enjoying the many health benefits that come with a full night of restful slumber.
3. Stay Healthy
When it comes to staying healthy, there are many things that can impact your lifelong wellness in positive or negative ways. While some factors may be out of your control, like your genetic makeup or age, there are plenty of healthy habits that you can make that will increase the chances of living a long and happy life.
Among them, eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits and veggies, exercise, getting enough sleep, taking vitamins and minerals and more can significantly improve your health. But it is important to keep in mind that good health doesn’t just mean avoiding disease and illness; it also means leading an active lifestyle and staying mentally, physically and emotionally well.
Stick this list up on your fridge, bookmark it on your phone or slip it into your workout bag to stay inspired to live a happy and healthy life! Don’t be afraid to try new things and adjust your routine as needed.