Tips for Living a Healthier, Happier Life

There are several simple, straightforward lifestyle choices that people can make, in consultation with their primary care physician, to help them live healthier, happier lives. For example, by losing weight, lowering cholesterol, and decreasing blood pressure, a person also reduces his or her chances of developing heart disease and diabetes.

Nutrition
There is truth to the adage “You are what you eat [and drink].” Foods like vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products provide the body with the nutrients it needs. The quantity and quality of foods, whether they are organic or not, and how much and what we eat also play important roles.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends:
•    Using up as many calories as are taken in
•    Eating a variety of nutritious foods from all the food groups
•    Eating less nutrient-poor foods
•    Avoiding tobacco smoke

Hydration
Eight to ten glasses of water a day is recommended. Start the day off by drinking water in the morning and continue all day. The current trend of soda, coffee, and so-called energy drinks as beverages of choice is no substitute for water. In short, fewer calories and more quality is a good way to nourish the human body.

Exercise
The benefits of exercise are well known. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day, or at least most days of the week. While hiking, jogging, running, and calisthenics can give a person a good cardio workout, biking, swimming, yoga, and Pilates can do so with less wear and tear on the knees and ankles.

Sleep
Adequate sleep is also very important to maintain good health. According to the AHA, a lack of sleep may be linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure. The stereotype of teens being lazy because they are reluctant to get out of bed is based on their physiological need for ten to twelve hours of sleep a night. Seniors can often get by on six hours of sleep, while six to eight hours is usually enough for adults.

Socializing
Along with the company and pleasure of having a pet and the feeling of being needed to care for a fellow creature, there are also health benefits to being sociable with family and friends, joining a social club or group, or engaging in cultural activities.

Spiritual
Relaxation, meditation, or attending a church may help improve a person’s spiritual wellbeing. Meditation is also good for mental health, as it helps a person put things into perspective.
It’s important for each of us to take time out of our busy schedules to care for our body, mind, and spirit. Talk to your primary care physician about lifestyle changes you can make to live a healthier, happier life—and a long one, too.

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Mukesh H. Naik, D.O. is a family medicine physician with Solano Regional Medical Group, the physicians group affiliated with Sutter Regional Medical Foundation (SRMF). SRMF is a member of the Solano Coalition for Better Health.

The Solano Coalition for Better Health is a countywide nonprofit organization comprised of health care providers, county health, educational and community organizations, and neighborhood advocates. Since its inception in 1988, the Coalition has developed successful programs that have improved the health of Solano County residents.

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