The number of Americans being diagnosed with heart diseases and obesity are becoming rampant every year. According to the latest data submitted by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), “More than one-third of adults and almost 17% of youth were obese in 2009–2010”.
To make matters worse, health insurance premiums have become very expensive. But the good thing is these diseases may be avoided by opting for healthy daily habits. But how can you work health habits into your daily routine without spending a great deal of time and money?
Here are 5 tips you can use daily to stay healthy:
Drink a lot of water.
Water is vital to our body. More than sixty percent of our body is made up of water. Water is responsible for transporting nutrients and oxygen into cells, helps our metabolism, protects our vital organs, detoxifies, regulates body temperature, and it helps in the absorption of nutrients.
The human body can last for weeks without food, but only days without water. According to The Institute of Medicine, the ideal amount of water for men should be at least 3 liters or 13 cups of water every day. Women on the other hand should drink 2.2 liters or about 9 cups daily.
By drinking a lot of water every day, we can enjoy a lot of health benefits including:
- weight loss
- relieves headache and back ache
- younger and healthier skin
- keeps brain alert
- better digestion
- reduces cramps and sprains
- reduces the risk of bladder and colon cancer
Eat Fruits and Vegetables.
Include fruits and vegetables in your diet. According to studies, a person who eats fruits and vegetables reduces the risk of cancer, heart diseases and eye problems. Experts suggest eating 9 servings of vegetables per day. Eat a variety of fruits. Fruits and vegetables are a good source of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants.
Bask in the Sun.
Aside from water and food, our bodies need Sunlight. Exposure to the sun produces vitamin D which strengthens our bones, muscles and nerves. But protect yourself from developing skin cancer by applying sunscreen and limiting the time you spend under the sun. Don’t do it between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The sun is at its hottest.
Sunlight also acts as an antidepressant.
Exercise.
You don’t have to go to the gym to exercise. What’s important is that you are physically active. It may be as simple as taking a walk, going biking, cleaning the house, gardening or taking the stairs. What’s important is you do them regularly. Exercise lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of developing heart disease, improves sleeping habit and keeps your body fit.
Get adequate sleep
. Sleep disorder has become a growing a health concern not just in the U.S. Lack of sleep may result to increased appetite, low-insulin production, weak immune system. Most adults need 8-9 hours of sleep.
Source: Vista Health Solutions. Vista Health Solutions focuses on providing instant, comparative quotes for health insurance plans such as Healthy NY and self-employed health insurance.