Making a Lifestyle Change to Add Years to Your Life
By Stephen R. Farris
Looking for ways to add years to your life, then you should look into changing your lifestyle by eating healthier, exercising more and giving up bad habits like smoking and consuming too much alcohol.
No matter what age you are, it's never too late to begin a new lifestyle change, especially if the changes will help you become more healthy and active. The health benefits could result in a reduced chance of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and maintaining or lowering your blood pressure, as well as other health conditions that could come up if you continue on your current path.
The first step is to check with your doctor or local chiropractor to see if you're healthy enough to begin an exercise regime, and to find out what tips and suggestions they can give in the area of nutrition. Your chiropractor can also help with your overall health and mental health as well as provide pain relief for your back, joints and neck through spinal manipulation adjustments.
But for now, let's take a look at some of the things you can change to get started with your lifestyle, fitness and nutritional goals.
Smoking
Smoking can cause lung cancer, heart disease and stroke. It can also affect other organs in your body too. The best thing you can do to avoid being at risk is to discontinue smoking and the use of tobacco products.
Keep Your Weight in Check
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for overall good health. Carrying extra pounds can put you into the obesity category, and with obesity you're more prone to developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, joint and back problems, and at risk for stroke and other health related ailments. Switching over to a healthy diet of fresh fruits, vegetables and lean cuts of meat can give your body the nutrients and minerals it needs to reduce those risks and help you live longer.
Exercise
Studies show that we should be getting at least 150 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. Even a 30-minute brisk walk each day could be the only workout you need, but it's a good idea to mix things up a little, such as cycling, aerobic exercise like yoga or tai chi, or maybe swimming. The 30 minutes per day, five days per week would put you right on target.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sacramento, Calif.