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According to a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, two-thirds of premature deaths and disabilities in this country are caused by poor lifestyle choices. By making wise lifestyle choices, most people can greatly reduce their risks of developing life-threatening illnesses. The following is a list of the top ten strategies that will lead to improved health and well-being.
1) Don't Smoke. Tobacco use is a major contributing factor in deaths from lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema, and other life-threatening illnesses. There is evidence that second hand smoke causes higher rates of respiratory problems and ear infections in children of smokers. So, if you use tobacco products, do yourself and everyone you know a big favor-quit now!
2) Eat Right. Pass up the high fat foods, and dig into the fruits and vegetables. Limit your fat intake to less than 30% of your total calories and eat five fruits or vegetables each day-two simple steps that can make major improvements in your daily diet.
3) Add Exercise to Your Routine. Exercise doesn't have to hurt to be beneficial. If it's done regularly, even modest physical activity-like taking the stairs, walking, dancing or gardening-can do wonders for your health, energy level and outlook on life.
4) Control Your Weight. Excess weight can strain your heart; contribute to the development of diabetes and certain types of cancer; damage hip, knee and ankle joints; and put a serious crimp in your lifestyle. Being overweight can also affect your ability to get the exercise you need to stay healthy.
5) Protect Your Well-Being. Take steps to manage stress, deal with treatable conditions like depression and insomnia, and maintain healthy relationships.
6) Don't Abuse Alcohol. For many people, having an alcoholic drink now and then is not harmful. However, an inability to control alcohol use can lead to serious health problems, increased accidents, and damaged relationships. If you think you may have a drinking problem, seek help from your company's Employee Assistance Program or, if one is not available, consider contacting support group like Alcoholics Anonymous.
7) Drive Safely. Practice defensive driving, always buckle up, and let someone else drive if you have been drinking. Never ride with someone else who has been drinking.
8) Get Preventive Exams. Talk with your doctor about preventive exams to avoid serious health problems in the future. Preventive health exams vary depending on your age, sex, and health history. Your doctor can recommend a schedule that is right for you.
9) Play It Safe. Make your home an accident free zone by installing smoke alarms; keeping poisons, medications, and firearms in locked cabinets; storing ladders and tools properly; and teaching children stove safety rules.
10) Practice Safe Sex. If you are sexually active, take appropriate steps (like using condoms) to protect your health, and your partner's, against sexually transmitted diseases.
WELLTIMES, VOL 14 #3, 1994
STAYWELL HEALTH MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS, INC.