You already know you should strive to stay healthy. Perhaps what you don’t know is how to achieve this goal. The solution is simple: make healthy choices and habits a part of our daily lives.
Habits and choices can sound vague, especially when discussing changing your lifestyle. But trust us, it’s not as complicated or intimidating as it seems. In this article, we’ll discuss some simple yet effective tips to help you stay always healthy and improve your overall well-being.
Keep Those Pearly Whites Shining
Yellowish teeth can dent your esteem. They reflect poorly on you. Plus, they affect your appearance and indicate poor oral hygiene. Keeping those pearly whites shining is crucial for staying always healthy.
To ensure healthy oral hygiene (teeth and gums), brush twice daily and floss regularly. Keep in mind, teeth whitening products are less effective if you don’t make brushing a part of your daily routine. Additionally, limit your consumption of staining substances such as black tea, coffee, and red wine. While they taste great, they aren’t suitable for your dental health. However, that does not mean you cut them off entirely.
Dental health is more than flossing and brushing if you have an aging parent or relative. That’s because tooth loss is more prevalent with old age. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimation, 26% of adults aged 65 and above have eight or fewer teeth. Also, one in six seniors does not have teeth at all.
With fewer teeth, your loved ones can have difficulty eating almost anything. Sometimes, even talking can be a problem. But there is a solution. You can visit dentist offices away before teeth problems arise. Regular dental checkups can prevent severe problems and catch any issues early on.
However, consider dental service procedures if your loved one has already lost several teeth and has difficulty eating. For instance, dentures or implants can help restore their smile and ability to eat comfortably. Implants, in particular, can also prevent facial sagging and bone loss, which occurs with missing teeth.
Get in a Comfortable 8 Hours!
A comfortable good night’s sleep is like a mini reset button for your body. It’s vital if you are to stay always healthy. While your day has a never-ending to-do list, you should strive to have at least eight hours of sleep. But what if you have urgent work? Extending your work hours for one night is fine, but you shouldn’t make it a habit.
Sleep deprivation can lead to health issues, such as weakened immunity and weight gain. According to the U.S. National Institute of Health(NIH), it can also increase chronic diseases such as diabetes, stroke, kidney disease, and high blood pressure. Lack of sleep can also negatively affect cognitive function, mood, and memory.
Moreover, when you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces cortisol – the stress hormone. Yes, that’s right! Less sleep means more stress and even depression if you don’t do something about it.
You don’t want any of these issues, right? To ensure quality sleep, create a bedroom routine and environment that promotes relaxation and comfort. That includes keeping the room dark, quiet, and calm. You may also try relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing before bedtime. These two can help you fall asleep faster and have a more restful night.
Quality sleep also includes comfort. That means you need a nice bed and a high-density mattress. If you still use the same old mattress from seven years ago, it’s time to upgrade! Visit your local mattress store and find a comfortable one.
Get a Physical Therapist for Your Needs
Life is unpredictable. So is your health. You could be okay today, and tomorrow, an accident happens, and you are bedridden. It is not rare in a country with over 6 million car accidents, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
However, an accident is not the end of your life. You can still stay healthy with the help of a physical therapist (PT). A professional can help you restore mobility and gain strength after an injury or surgery. They can also help manage chronic pain from injuries.
But a PT isn’t a savior for people facing injuries only. Old age comes with physical limitations. You or a loved one may experience difficulty with walking, maintaining balance, or performing daily tasks. You will need some help from a professional. Regular visits to your doctors can improve your mobility and independence.
Additionally, if you or a loved one has issues with neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy and stroke, a PT can create a personalized workout plan. Such exercises can improve muscle strength, coordination, and balance. While they can’t cure the condition, they can help you stay always healthy.
Eye Care is the Best Care
Eye care should be part of your healthy living plan. Vision loss is one of the top disabilities among adults aged 40 and older. It affects over 12 million Americans, as reported by the CDC.
To keep your eyes healthy, prioritize regular eye exams. Frequent checks can help detect issues like cataracts or glaucoma in their earlier stages. Moreover, don’t ignore changes in your vision or eye health. If you experience any discomfort or notice changes, visit an optometrist immediately. Early detection and appropriate treatment can prevent further damage and keep your eyes healthy for years.
You can also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing eyeglasses or a hat outdoors and proper gear such as goggles or helmets. Additionally, reduce your time on electronic devices and take breaks every 20 minutes to look away and rest your eyes. Remember to eat healthy diets rich in vitamins A, C, and E for eye health.
Growth Hormone to Benefit Your Health
Cancer has become a common health issue in the United States. According to the National Cancer Institute, the United States has about 2 million new cancer cases in 2023. Cancer can be devastating in many ways. It takes a toll on the patient’s physical and emotional health.
However, while chemotherapy helps reduce cancer progression, you can also benefit from growth hormone therapy (GHT). GHT helps restore your strength and muscle mass, which cancer treatment affects. It also improves your energy levels and mood.
Moreover, besides benefiting cancer patients, GHT also helps those with GH deficiency (GHD). This condition can lead to reduced muscle mass and bone density. It may also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and dementia. With GHT, you can improve your overall health and well-being.
However, it’s essential to consult a doctor before starting any hormone therapy. They can help determine the proper treatment for you and monitor your progress throughout the therapy. Along with GHT, maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet. With the proper treatment and lifestyle, you can stay always healthy and robust despite any health challenges.
Local Medical Centers
Visiting a medical center for regular checkups can help you stay always healthy. While you might not be sick, checkups help identify and prevent health problems before they turn severe. This preventative care approach can save you from expensive treatments and hospital stays in the future. Besides, you already pay for insurance coverage. You won’t have any extra out-of-pocket expenses.
Medical centers can run tests for various diseases. These tests help detect health issues such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes early. Timely medical attention helps manage these conditions and prevent them from becoming chronic. Health centers also offer vaccinations to protect against common illnesses like flu or pneumonia.
Moreover, medical centers have specialized doctors for different health problems. You can find a cardiologist for heart-related issues, an endocrinologist to treat hormonal imbalances and an allergist to help you deal with allergies. Even without a disease, seeking a specialist will help you receive comprehensive health service that suits your needs.
But how often should you visit a medical center? The answer varies depending on your age, health history, and family’s medical history. Generally, if you’re under 50, once every three years should be fine. Above that, once a year should be the minimum.
Keep Your Pets Just as Healthy as You Too
Part of staying always healthy includes keeping your pets healthy. Pets can bring joy and companionship. They help you deal with loneliness and depression, according to the NIH News In Health. However, they can also be a source of health problems if not taken care of properly.
Like humans, pets need regular medical checkups and vaccinations. They carry various bacteria and viral zoonotic infections, which you can catch. For example, rabies and noroviruses from your dog are highly contagious and can be fatal. And those are not the only health risks from pets. Fleas, ticks, and mites are sources of allergies and infections.
According to the NIH, pets can spread over nine diseases, including salmonella and campylobacter. If you notice a change in your pet’s behavior, immediately take them to a local emergency vet. It’s also essential to keep up with their vaccinations and deworming treatments. It’s crucial for their health and protects you from potential health hazards.
Like humans, pets also need a healthy diet and exercise. Consult your vet for the best food options for your pet’s breed and age. And make sure to walk or play with them regularly to keep them fit. Pet physical therapy might also be necessary if your furry friend has mobility issues.
Also, ensure you maintain proper hygiene for your pet. Regularly bathe it, clean its living spaces & feeding bowl, and wash your hands after handling them. With proper care, your pets can continue to be a source of joy and not cause illness.
Measure and Watch Your Weight
If you’re to stay always healthy, you have to manage your weight. According to the CDC, excessive body weight has been linked to various health risks, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. But you can prevent these conditions by maintaining a healthy weight.
Your first step in maintaining a healthy weight is knowing your numbers. You can do this by calculating your body mass index (BMI). The index is the ratio of your weight to height. A high BMI indicates that you might be overweight or obese, while a low BMI suggests being underweight.
Identifying your BMI helps determine how much weight you need to lose or gain. It enables you to set realistic goals and develop a plan. It’s essential to remember that achieving a healthy weight takes time, and it’s a gradual process.
While you don’t have to spend the whole day at the gym, you can dedicate a few hours four days a week to working out. You can also incorporate changes into your daily routine, like walking instead of taking the bus or elevator, taking the stairs instead of the escalator, and doing household chores. These activities help you burn calories while improving your overall physical health.
Besides exercise, it’s necessary to stick to a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight. It’s essential to avoid processed foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats. Instead, opt for whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. And remember to stay hydrated.
Manage Stress In a Healthy Way
Having stress is normal. In fact, when it’s short-lived, it can get you to take action to improve your work and daily life. For example, you might feel stressed if you have a deadline at work, but it pushes you to work harder. But when stress is chronic and prolonged, it can do more harm than good.
Chronic stress affects you physically and mentally. It increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, digestive problems, mood disorders like anxiety & depression, and headaches, among others, according to NIH. Stress also interferes with sleep patterns, essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind.
While stress is unavoidable, it’s essential to have healthy coping mechanisms. Physical activities like yoga and meditation can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Additionally, talking to someone about your problems can also be very helpful. You may also practice breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques to manage stress.
Prioritizing your tasks and having good time management skills is also crucial. Learning to say no to more work when it gets overwhelming is also necessary. Additionally, taking breaks while working can help prevent burnout and increase productivity.
While you can’t predict what health issues may arise, there are steps you can take to prevent some of them. Don’t wait until you get ill to start being more health conscious. Practice healthy habits, maintain good hygiene, and always seek medical attention when necessary. When you ingrain these steps in your routine, you rest assured of being always healthy.
