World Health Day 2024: Include a variety of colorful foods in your diet
World Health Day is observed on April 7 every year to commemorate the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. This day serves as an opportunity to draw attention to global health issues and raise awareness about various health issues that affect people around the world.
WHD allows us to refocus on the importance of taking care of our health and wellness. Making small but healthy changes to your daily routine can greatly improve your quality of life. Keep reading for a list of lifestyle changes you can start making today to improve your overall health.
10 lifestyle tips to improve your health:
1. Stay hydrated
Drinking the right amount of water helps keep your body functioning, aids digestion, supports skin health, regulates body temperature, and transports nutrients and oxygen to your cells. The best way to follow this tip is to carry a reusable water bottle with you and drink water throughout the day.
2. Eat a balanced diet
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats provides the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals needed for optimal body function. Incorporate a variety of colorful foods into your diet.
3. Exercise regularly
Regular physical activity strengthens muscles and bones, improves cardiovascular health, boosts mood, reduces stress, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
4. Prioritize sleep
Getting enough quality sleep is essential to your overall health and well-being as it supports cognitive function, immune function, mood regulation, and physical recovery. Create a relaxing pre-bedtime routine and aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
5. Manage stress
Chronic stress can negatively impact both your physical and mental health and increase your risk for a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, obesity, and depression. Habits like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, and spending time in nature can help you manage stress effectively.
6. Limit alcohol intake
Excessive alcohol consumption can have negative health effects, including liver damage, increased risk of certain cancers, and mental health problems. Moderation is key, with up to 1 cup per day recommended for women and up to 2 cups per day for men.
7. Quit smoking
Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide and increases the risk of a variety of health conditions, including lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory diseases. Quitting smoking will greatly improve your health and reduce your risk of these diseases.
8. Thorough hygiene management
Practicing good hygiene habits, such as washing your hands regularly, brushing and flossing your teeth, and showering daily, can help prevent the spread of germs and reduce your risk of infection.
9. Stay socially connected
Social connections are essential for mental and emotional well-being, providing support, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, and improving overall quality of life.
10. Schedule regular health checkups
Regular health checkups and health checkups are very important for early detection and prevention of health problems. These may include blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and various cancer screenings, as well as vaccinations and dental exams.
If you follow these lifestyle tips consistently and incorporate them into your daily routine, your overall health and well-being will improve over time. It's important to listen to your body, make changes gradually, and seek support from a medical professional or registered dietitian if needed.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or doctor for more information. NDTV is not responsible for this information.
