How many times have you heard about the benefits of a good lifestyle? It is key to losing weight, keeping mental health issues at bay, and protecting against several non-communicable diseases. On the other hand, a poor lifestyle damages your health in more ways than one. But what comprises a good lifestyle? What are the ways to develop it? And what are its benefits? For answers to these questions, Onlymyhealth spoke to Dr. Mudita Dhingra, Consultant Diabetologist and Pediatric Endocrinologist, Shree Guru Kripa Endocrine Clinic, Kurukshetra.
Answering the first question, Dr. Dhingra said there are four elements of a good lifestyle:
- Balanced diet
- Physical activity
- Stress management
- Enough sleep
Elements Of Good Lifestyle
Let us look at these elements of a good lifestyle in detail:
1. Balanced Diet
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You might have heard of the term ‘balanced diet’ on several occasions. But do you know what it means? A balanced diet is a diet that contains plenty of protein for growth, healing, and metabolism. It also contains enough carbohydrates, complex carbs to be specific. Some of the sources of a balanced diet include whole grains, millets, and legumes. Also, have lots of fruits and vegetables for fiber. Do not ignore dairy products such as milk, curd, cheese, butter, etc.
Also read: 5 Lifestyle Tips To Prevent Diabetes If It Runs In Your Family
2. Physical Activity
Not just weight loss, exercising is crucial for overall health. There is no specific number of hours you must spend in the gym. It is advised that children must be physically active for at least one hour daily. Similarly, adults must work out for at least 150 hours per week. It can be anything, from mild exercises like walking, jogging, and cycling to strenuous exercises like strength training.
3. Stress
Excessive stress harms your health in several ways. Hence, stress management is now considered a pillar of a good lifestyle. To counter stress, do yoga, meditate, do deep breathing exercises, engage in recreational activities or anything that helps.
4. Sleep
Although often ignored, sleep is as important for health as food and exercise. Research shows that those who sleep late and shift workers tend to gain weight. Obesity is a risk factor for several diseases. Hence, aim for at least 7-8 hours of restful sleep daily.
Also read: What Are The Causes For Lifestyle Disorders In Men? Here's How A Low GI Diet Can Help In Prevention
How To Develop A Good Lifestyle?
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Let’s be honest, a good lifestyle sounds fancy and looks neat on paper. But it takes a lot to develop one. So here are the ways you can develop a good lifestyle:
- Firstly, if you want your children to have a good lifestyle, be a good role model. Hence, eat well, exercise daily, meditate and rest well. Kids emulate their parents and by having a good lifestyle, you’ll do both your kid and yourself a big favour in the form of good health.
- Sticking to your roots can help. It means having foods that your family has eaten for generations (the healthy ones). One way you can do it is by securing locally produced fruits, vegetables, and grains.
- There are times when you have to go out and socialise. You tend to eat junk and/or unhealthy foods. In such a scenario, check your portion size. Having a small amount of these will save you your health, discipline, and consistency.
A good lifestyle benefits you in several ways. Firstly, it increases longevity. It also protects you from various non-communicable diseases like type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, etc. When you have a healthy lifestyle, you make better choices. You might opt for a simple meal rather than junk food. It, in turn, can have a major impact on your productivity. A healthy lifestyle ensures you are disease-free, which improves happiness and makes you strong to achieve your goals.
(With inputs from Dr. Mudita Dhingra, Consultant Diabetologist and Pediatric Endocrinologist, Shree Guru Kripa Endocrine Clinic, Kurukshetra)
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