Comment on English Composition Week 1 Activities & Homework: 4-14-2010 by tawanda

Healthy Living TodayTodays average American is plagued with several health problems. These problems range from heart disease, diabetes, cancer in various forms and many others illnesses. In an effort to solve these health problems, a host of health gurus have answered the call. They try to solve the dilemma with different diet pills, powders, and even exercise contraptions. The problem is their methods at times can be confusing, unrealistic, or even dangerous for some. Truth be told the old fashion way of doing things have always been the best method to living a long healthy life. Diet, exercise, overall health have truly been the key to success in living a healthy lifestyle.You are what you eat. That age old saying has last throughout the test of time because its true. A study done at the University of Hawaii followed 200,000 people for seven years who consumed processed meats such at sausage, hot dogs and lunch meats showed that 67% of the subjects showed an increased risk of pancreatic cancer over those who consumed little or no processed meat products. In addition, most canned and prepackaged foods have high levels of trans fats, sodium and artificial preservatives such as MSG. These ingredients should be avoided at all cost.An example of the types of foods that should be eaten to promote a healthy lifestyle is found on the new food pyramid. It emphases the need to eat 3-6 servings of vegetables and 2-4 servings of fruit. The American Cancer Society recommends a colorful diet. Dark green spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes carrots, bananas, blueberries and tomatoes provide a broad range of nutrients including beta-carotene, antioxidants and fiber. In addition it recommends daily multiple vitamins, rather than taking diet pills that raise your blood pressure, causes heart palpitations, insomnia, and in some cases death.Daily exercise is loathed by most but is necessary. Although some choose to sign up for expensive gyms this can become a waste of money. Effective cardio can be done simply by taking a brisk walk or a jog in the park. Jogging not only helps to burn fat but will also help to build endurance, not to mention its free. Weight bearing exercises are also helpful and can be done with either inexpensive light weights, water bottles, or even through calisthenics. At times one my find it hard to engage in such exercises due to morbid obesity or other health problems. One solution to this problem could be water aerobics which is known to help lessen joint pain and one can still have an effective workout. To see a difference in ones health exercise must be done on a regular basis. Some opt to exercise 3 to 4 times a week while others are more ambitious and choose to exercise daily. Ones schedule usually dictates their exercise route. No matter what a persons situation is its important to keep your body moving for a healthier lifestyle. Overall health is also important. A yearly physical is recommended for everyone of any age. If one has preexisting conditions that merit additional attention it would be appropriate to visit the doctor more often. It is also recommended to have certain test a particular ages in life. For example, it is recommended that women have a mammogram at the age of 40, sooner if there is a history of breast cancer in the family. For men it is recommended that they have a prostate exam starting at age 50 unless there is a history of prostate cancer in the family. These exams are preventative measures that should not be ignored. One of the most essential components to a healthy lifestyle, has now become a popular trend. Very little value use to be placed on ones mental health, now rest and relaxation is a must. We live in a non stop society that can not only physically drain you but can also be mentally draining. Aroma therapy, soft music, massage therapy and other relaxation techniques are most sought after. It is important to make your home a relaxing place to be. At some point in the day one has to be able to have an area where they are at peace. Although it may be hard for some to admit their flaws, a hard look in the mirror is vital. No matter how healthy the diet or how much exercise ones does if they do not get rid of their bad habits theyre doomed to fail. Over drinking of alcohol and smoking tobacco can be deadly. One should strongly consider ridding themselves of such habits. Ones health is very important, people usually dont come to realize that until its gone. Developing healthy eating habits, exercising and caring for ones overall health will aid in not only preventing diseases but also in living a healthy life. http://bit.ly/am8Rd7