Ten Steps to Better Health

Simple Ways to Start Getting Healthier Today

Sep 14, 2008 Robin Mayhall

These 10 basic tips can improve your health and help prevent illness down the road.

Most people know that the basic prescription for good health is eating right and getting regular exercise. But the “right” diet and exercise program may differ from one person to the next. And there are several other easy ways you can improve your health and lower your long-term risk of serious illness. You may even save money on healthcare costs by reducing visits to the doctor or hospital.

If you need to lose weight, maintain your weight or just get a little more active, you'll find suggestions below. Even if your weight is just right, there are still a number of preventive medicine guidelines to help you stay healthy over the long term.

1. Ask your healthcare provider what type of physical activity is right for you. If you haven’t exercised in a while, have joint problems or are overweight, don’t try to jump in to a vigorous exercise routine on day one. You may be able to stretch, do light toning or strengthening exercises or even do light aerobic activity from a bed or chair.
2. Eat a balanced and healthy dietthat includes a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains and nuts, lean meats and fish and plenty of fiber, while minimizing saturated fats and refined sugars.
3. Practice preventive medicine. Ask your doctor what routine tests are appropriate for you, such as an annual Pap smear, mammogram, annual prostate screening or colonoscopy.
4. Ask your doctor if a flu shotor pneumonia vaccination would help you avoid potentially serious illness.
5. Learn about appropriate self-examination for your age and gender, such as breast self-exams to help detect breast cancer.
6. Wear your seat belt every time you get in a car.
7. Avoid tobaccoand use alcohol only in moderation. Never drink and drive.
8. Build a good relationship with your healthcare providerand take an active role in your own care. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anything you don’t understand.
9. To avoid harmful interactions, be sure to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and supplements.
10. Find ways to avoid stress in your lifewhere possible. Counteract the effects of stress by meditating, keeping a journal or practicing relaxation techniques.

Many of these ideas may seem obvious. But are you following them all? If you’ve been looking for a way to feel better, start with these simple ideas and talk to your physician about other things to consider. You can be part of the movement for a healthier you and a healthier America!

The copyright of the article Ten Steps to Better Health in General Medicine is owned by Robin Mayhall. Permission to republish Ten Steps to Better Health in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Have fun while you get active!