Most of us know that following a healthy diet and exercising are key to preventing diseases and health conditions, as well as increasing longevity. Our bodies need the proper nutrients and physical activity to stay healthy. Certain preventative steps, like participating in health screenings, are also essential to mastering health.
To remind readers of the benefits of healthy habits, South Source looked at tips offered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to provide general guidelines for good health.
Eat Right
Making smart food choices can help protect us from conditions such as:
Smart choices mean eating the carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals needed to maintain healthy organs, bones, muscles, nerves, and to produce hormones and chemicals required for the proper function of organs.
A healthy diet means eating:
- Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products
- Seafood, poultry, lean meats, eggs, beans, and nuts
It means staying away from:
- Cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugars
- Trans fats – which are usually found in fried foods, cakes, cookies, and stick margarines
- Saturated fats – which come from animal products like cheese and fatty meats
Get Active
Exercise can help us control our blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight. It can also be a lot of fun and help us look our best. Need more motivation to exercise? Well, here are a few more benefits of being physically active:
- Stronger bones, muscles, and joints
Get Health Screenings
Health screening tests can help catch specific illnesses early on and work as disease prevention. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends talking with your doctor about the health screenings that are right for you, based on your age, gender, individual health risks, and your family history, and following the advice of your doctor.
Author: Darice Britt