We’ve all heard the saying “health and fitness” – but what does it really mean? Is it possible to live a healthy lifestyle, even if you make unhealthy choices from time to time? It’s not easy to keep up with a balanced diet, exercise regularly and get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. In addition, there are many external pressures that can pull us away from living a healthy lifestyle.
Fortunately, we can do something about it! A few simple changes can help to get us back on track. First, start by making sure you are eating a variety of nutritious foods. You’ll want to focus on lean proteins, whole grains and lots of fruits and veggies. Additionally, drink plenty of water and try to reduce or avoid sugary drinks and sodas.
Next, increase your level of physical activity. This can be anything from walking to work or taking the stairs instead of the elevator, to swimming, biking, running and playing sports. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle because it can prevent and control many diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood cholesterol levels, and obesity.
It is also an important component of a healthy brain and can improve mental health and quality of life. It can also relieve stress and promotes good sleeping habits. Lastly, it can help to prevent fractures and accidents like a hip fracture that can have serious consequences for older adults.
Keeping physically fit is important for everyone. It can help to prevent or manage many diseases, including heart disease and stroke, Type 2 diabetes, high blood cholesterol, and obesity, and it can improve mental health. It is recommended that adults participate in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for at least 150 minutes a week, which is the equivalent of 30 to 60 minutes per day. It is also recommended that children and adolescents age 6-17 participate in physical activity for at least an hour a day.