There is no magic pill for good health. Staying healthy requires maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting physical exercise, and alleviating stress. It’s also important to visit your doctor for regular check-ups and tests if needed. Here are five tips for staying healthy, no matter what age:

1. Eat a healthy diet: To follow a healthy diet, make sure your diet is rich in fiber, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and unsaturated fats, so-called good fats. Together, these nutritional elements keep down inflammation which causes damage to tissue, joints, artery walls, and organs. It’s also important to eat less processed foods, sweets, foods made with highly refined grains, and sugar-sweetened beverages. Too much sugar and refined carbohydrates can cause spikes in blood sugar which leads to feeling hungry and overeating. High blood sugar is linked to several disorders including the development of diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and even dementia. According to Harvard Health Publishing, the consumer health education division of Harvard Medical School, there is convincing evidence that the Mediterranean diet is effective at reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and premature death. The Mediterranean diet is rich in olive oil, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish while low in red meats and/or processed meats. You can also have a moderate amount of cheese and wine.

2. Physical Activity: Staying active is essential for good health. Physical activity can greatly reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, breast and colon cancer, depression, and falls. It also improves sleep, stamina, and even activity in the bedroom. You should incorporate 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week, such as brisk walking. Strength training, such as squats and push-ups, is also recommended 2 to 3 times a week for balance, bone health, controlling blood sugar, and mobility. 

3. Reduce Stress: Given the connection between stress and a variety of disorders, it’s important to find ways to reduce stress to stay healthy. There are many ways to minimize stress in your life. You can try meditation, mindfulness, yoga, relaxing on weekends, spa retreats, and taking vacations. The important thing is to find something that works for you and stick to it.

4. Don’t Smoke: Tobacco causes many types of cancer, along with other serious problems, such as heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Smoking cannabis frequently over a long period of time can damage your lungs, particularly if you hold the smoke in after inhaling. E-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is addictive, and vaping can contain chemicals that are harmful to the lungs. Staying smoke-free is imperative to good health. If you smoke or use smokeless tobacco, such as chewing tobacco or snuff, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health.

5. Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Sleep is essential for regulating hormones, building memory, and repairing our bodies. Not sleeping well can lead to poor diet, fatigue, brain fog, and a lack of confidence. Consistent sleep hygiene is necessary for a good night’s sleep. Try to maintain your regular sleep schedule, even on weekends. You should also reduce stress in your life and don’t eat greasy food or consume caffeine late at night. Turn screens off at least one hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted by TVs, phones, laptops, and tablets, can affect your body’s internal clock. Finding a screen-free way to wind down, such as taking a hot bath, can help soothe stress and promote a healthy sleep cycle.

We hope these suggestions will guide you towards staying healthy. Don’t forget to see your doctor for regular check-ups or sooner if any issues arise.

We appreciate you reading our blog. You can contact Raynor & D’Andrea Funeral Home at 1-800-737-0017. Or you can drop us a message here.