How to Write Yourself a Check for Good Health
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us make deposits for our future financial well-being, but we sometimes forget to take equally good care of our health.
If you are behind on health maintenance, the New Year might be a good time to turn the page and make things right.
Drs. Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen say life expectancy is headed straight upwards. In 1929, life expectancy was 57.1 years. In 2014 it was 78.8 years. In 2,000 some 50,000 individuals reached 100. By 2014, that number had jumped by 44 percent to 72,197.
If you want to join the parade, they suggest you focus on the basic guidelines "to keep your brain sharp, your muscles and bones strong, and your blood flowing through open flexible veins to thrive as you age."
Most Chronic Disease Is Preventable
They say 80 to 90 percent of chronic disease in the U.S. is preventable. So what are you waiting for? Here are some good tips to use as starters.
Keep moving throughout the day - We know we should get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, and do two to three strength-building sessions a week, but constant movement is also crucial. In the digital age, most of sit more for longer periods of time. The only way to combat the negative impact of sitting is to move whenever you can. Move five minutes for every hour you sit at work. Use a treadmill or exercise bike when you are watching TV. Take the stairs and bike rather than drive. Find more and more ways to stay active,
Rest well - Create a sublime sleeping area that is cool, dark and quiet. Bring in an air filter to erase noise and clean the air. Move laptops, phones and the TV out. Use blackout drapes to block light and make sure your pillow and mattress are comfortable. Avoid spicy foods, alcohol and stimulants before bedtime. Cut off caffeine in early afternoon and develop a sleep ritual with soft music or a warm bath.
Eat healthy - Have a plan that includes about nine servings of fresh fruit and veggies every day. Avoid processed foods such as pastries and frozen dinners. Eat pure whole grains, use protein to fuel your mind and body. Stay hydrated and limit red meats.
Pay attention to your body - Maintain regular checkups including colonoscopies, mammograms and blood and cholesterol readings. Check out any new symptoms promptly.
Stay connected - Spend times with friends and family to sit and talk, wind down and relax your mind and body.
When you make regular investments in your health and well-being everybody wins. Enjoy the dividends.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Coppell, Tex.