The Power Of Preventive Care: 4 Simple Steps To A Healthier You

  • General Health
  • general health - Lifestyle - preventative care
  • May 28, 2024

More and more people are exploring the benefits of preventive care. Consistently implement these 4 steps for a healthy, disease-free body.

Preventative Care Means A Healthier You

I llness and chronic diseases are everywhere. As the human body ages, is exposed to environmental toxins, and is powerless to the whims of genetics, disease feels inevitable. With preventative care, however, the risk is controlled significantly. Preventative care is a series of strategies and interventions designed to limit or prevent certain illnesses or chronic diseases. The goal is all about living a healthy life free of disability and preventing premature death. Preventative care combines proactive medical work with tried and tested lifestyle changes for a better quality of life. Over time, preventative care significantly decreases the odds of a life-changing medical event.

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Why should you focus on preventing disease?

Statistics show the instances of chronic diseases are at an all-time high. Prevention is better than cure, so preventative care is rooted in avoiding or preventing illnesses altogether. This strategy is more cost-effective, and the chance for less invasive treatment increases significantly. Preventative care also improves health outcomes if doctors detect a chronic disease or illness. This strategy is an empowering approach to health as people feel more responsible for general wellness. Best of all, healthier people are more financially successful, have enriched relationships, and live happier lives. Preventative care does not have to be challenging or complicated. These 4 simple steps set the foundation for a disease-free life filled with boundless energy.

1. A strong relationship with your doc

Preventative care starts with deeply understanding one’s current health before severe symptoms arise. A family doctor or medical expert can provide this support through regular screenings and check-ups. Some adults have access to an annual wellness review with a doctor. This visit combines a physical examination with blood pressure checks, cholesterol checks, and blood sugar screenings. At certain ages, doctors also recommend cancer screenings like mammograms, skin cancer and colon cancer screenings, and prostate exams. Doctor’s visits for updated immunizations and annual flu shots also play a role in preventative care. A yearly up-to-date picture of one’s health is vital for immediate action, limiting symptoms, and even reversing disease.

2. Getting your diet and supplements dialed in

The body needs specific nutrients, vitamins, and minerals for optimal health and wellness. Vitamin deficiencies over time can lead to an increased risk of chronic diseases. Certain foods, like highly processed foods and those with high sugar content, can lead to inflammation, a significant factor in reduced longevity. Adopting a healthy, balanced diet as often as possible sets a foundation for preventative care. Fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats all combine to supply the vitamins and minerals needed for optimal health. Adding supplements to address vitamin deficiencies also contributes to preventative care. Dietary changes must be seen not as a quick fix but as a lifelong gateway to disease prevention.

3. Regular physical activity matters

Studies show a direct correlation between regular physical activity and long-term health. Exercise improves muscle mass, limits joint pain, and supports cardiovascular health. Physical activity also helps with brain health, increasing healthy hormones necessary for focus and memory. Exercise can even limit conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia. At least 150 minutes of moderate weekly exercise is ideal for general fitness and overall health. Doctors recommend combining weightlifting, aerobic exercise, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) every week. Even weekly hobbies like sports, dancing, hiking, and other social activities help to maintain physical health and limit disease.

4. The power of the mind

Studies show chronic stress can shorten life expectancy by at least 2.8 years. Stress is connected to inflammation due to consistent cortisol levels. People with high stress increases are also prone to smoking, excessive alcohol use, and developing diabetes. Moreover, the mental health repercussions must not be overlooked. Meditation, journaling, talk therapy, and activities like walking and connecting with nature all help with stress management. Speaking with a doctor or pharmacist for medication or supplements to lower stress levels can also help.

Making preventative care easier

The biggest challenge is encouraging individuals to take personal responsibility for long-term health. Doctors and other medical professionals can facilitate preventative medicine but must be initiated and managed by patients. Many believe the strategies are too difficult, time-consuming, costly, and lack immediate results. The goal, therefore, is to look for ways to make preventive habits attainable. Most preventative care doctor visits are covered by insurance, with some institutions providing free or low-cost options. From there, individuals can make healthier diet and exercise choices. Joining an accountability group also makes the process easier and more fun.

Here’s to a healthier you

Preventative care is essential for people of all walks of life. Even those with preexisting conditions can make significant health strides by incorporating many of these tenets. Yearly doctor’s visits and screenings ensure that early action can be taken to reverse the signs of disease. Proper treatment, combined with diet, exercise, and stress combine to achieve a long, healthy life. At the same time, no one’s perfect, and consistency can be challenging. Doing one’s best and seeking support can help individuals get the best out of preventative care.

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