Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for our overall well-being. It’s not just about eating right or exercising regularly, but it’s a combination of several factors that can help us lead a healthy and happy life. Anne Brown, Physician Assistant at Baptist Health Family Clinic-West shares some tips and tricks for living a healthy lifestyle:
1. Stay Hydrated
Water is essential for our body to function correctly as it helps regulate body temperature, transport nutrients and remove waste. Aim for 60-100 ounces of water daily to support healthy kidneys and other bodily functions. Learn more about how you can stay hydrated all summer long – and avoid dehydration here.
2. Keep Moving
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving mental health. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly (or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise), but even 10 minutes of exercise daily is enough to have health benefits.
3. Eat More Fiber
Fiber is essential for good digestive health and can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The American Heart Association recommends 25-30 grams of fiber per day for adults, but the average American gets only 15 grams daily. You can increase fiber by eating more fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains like wheat, oats, or barley.
4. Make Time for Sleep
Sleep is essential for our body to repair and rejuvenate. Lack of sleep can lead to several health problems like obesity, diabetes, and depression. For adults, its is recommended 7-8 hours nightly, 8-10 hours for teens and 9-13 hours for younger children. Getting enough sleep is associated with improved focus, stronger immune systems, and lower rates of diabetes, heart disease, and depression.
5. Manage Stress
Stress is a part of life, but chronic stress can lead to several health problems. Meditation, yoga, and spending time with loved ones can all provide benefits for mental health. Try to find ways to manage stress to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Meditation, yoga, and spending time with loved ones can all provide benefits for mental health. Through innovative services, group therapy, medication and more, Baptist Health offers intensive mental health services for adults between 18-65 years of age. For more information, call the Behavioral Services Call Center at 501-202-7006.
6. Go Offline
Increased screen time is associated with higher rates of obesity, depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping for both children and adults. Limit screen time (outside of work or school) to two hours a day or less for maximum benefits.
Living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple changes like drinking more water, eating more fiber, and getting enough sleep can help you live a healthier life. Remember to find ways to manage stress and limit your screen time to maintain a healthy and happy life.