The Link Between Lifestyle and Health
Health is a condition of mental, physical and social well being where infirmity and illness are absent. It also implies the quality of life in the sense that all the three components of health are available. Many different definitions have been employed over the years for various different purposes. One of them is that “health” implies the absence of suffering, pain or death and is not necessarily associated with “life” as most people believe.
The term “mental health” was first introduced in the 1970s as an attempt to replace the phrase “psychiatric disorder” which was used to describe psychiatric illnesses. Mental health issues refer to any mental illness that impairs your capacity for coping with day to day activities. The word “mental” was added because it was thought that the word “psychiatric” had negative connotations. These connotations are no longer applicable. Today, the word “mental health care systems” is more appropriate.
There are many aspects of overall health care systems. For instance, there is general health which may include prevention of diseases and disorders, maintenance of good physical health and weight management, maintenance of proper nutritional status, development and maintenance of mental health and social care. Prevention of diseases and disorders includes practicing a regular exercise regimen, eating the right kinds of foods and getting sufficient sleep. Maintaining good physical health includes avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.
Proper nutrition and exercise are two major factors in achieving good health. A diet which is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains is essential in reducing your risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. A balanced diet and regular physical activity will help you reduce your stress level and prevent you from acquiring a host of illness including cancer. Stress can make you feel out of breath and physically exhausted and can lead to a number of illnesses and diseases such as high blood pressure, insomnia, ulcers, depression, anxiety and other psychological illnesses.
In addition to lifestyle choices there are other things that you can do to improve your overall well being. Along with a good diet and exercise, it is essential to make wise decisions about your medical care. It is helpful if you take the time to investigate what your options are for treatment. You may be able to find a good discount health plan at a nearby pharmacy that can offer you quality and affordable health coverage. Many employers now offer health benefits, which can be used to supplement any of the above lifestyle choices that you make.
If you are obese or overweight, you are more likely to have many physical ailments. Some examples of illnesses that are commonly associated with being overweight or obese include heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, stroke, osteoporosis and certain forms of cancer. Obesity also contributes to a number of other medical conditions including sleep apnea, osteoporosis and cancer. If you have a diagnosis of either obesity or a related physical ailment such as diabetes, you should speak with your doctor. A diet and exercise program can help you shed the pounds and live a happier and healthier lifestyle.