An Overall Program of Better Health

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.  ~World Health Organization, 1948

If you are a smoker there is probably little I can tell you about the dangers of this habit that you don’t already know.  But let’s be honest: Smoking greatly increases the chances that we will develop heart disease as well as various forms of cancer.  We all know this and we are living in denial if we believe otherwise.   

 

Consider giving up smoking as an overall program of better and improved health.  I know of one man who kicked his smoking habit by keeping a pack of raisins in his shirt pocket.  When he felt the urge to smoke he simply pulled out the box of raisins and ate a few.  Another man I know of kept butterscotch candy in his shirt pocket and this did the trick.  In either case, these men quit smoking and reported better health as a result.  Others go “cold turkey,” by throwing their cigarettes away and never smoking again.  Whatever works for you, my friend, you will be a healthier, happier, and wealthier person by giving up this habit.  At $5.00 a pack, think of the extra money you’ll have in your pocket by quitting.  After a year you could just about take your dream vacation! 

Giving up smoking can be a part of an overall approach to improved health and a brighter outlook.  What about daily eating habits?  If your breakfast consists of such delicacies as pop-tarts, doughnuts, Snickers bars, and Mountain Dew, then you are missing out.  This vital first meal of the day sets the tone for a great start to the day as well as increased energy and a better attitude.  Try these suggestions for better eating habits:

• Say goodbye to doughnuts and pastries in the morning and try some oatmeal, grapefruit, whole-wheat toast, or yogurt and granola.  For lunch and supper seek a balanced, protein-filled diet consisting of meat, vegetables, and fruit. 
  

• Stop eating fast-food for lunch every day; you’re killing yourself.  When you get hungry and need a snack, replace cookies, cake, pie, and ice cream with healthy snacks such as raisins, celery sticks, carrots sticks, and fresh fruits. 
  

• Make sure that you are hydrated throughout the day.  Recent studies have shown that a glass of water followed by a ten minute walk can increase energy levels and elevate mood. 

• If you are overweight, try eliminating all sugar from your diet for 6 months.  What?!  Yes, you read that correctly.  Cut all sugar from your diet and you will lose weight.  Stick with healthy foods such as fruits, green leafy vegetables, and various meats – without the bread.   

There are a gazillion books on the market which are great resources for healthy eating, but I dare say you are smart enough to figure this out for yourself.  Eat less and eat smart – that’s the key. 

So, what are you waiting for?  Today is the day and now is the time.  Make a decision to take back control of your health.  You will not regret it.

It’s going to be a great day!