FREE SHIPPING! On online orders of $74+. Use code: SHIP74 
Access Denied
IMPORTANT! If you’re a store owner, please make sure you have Customer accounts enabled in your Store Admin, as you have customer based locks set up with EasyLockdown app. Enable Customer Accounts
4 Lifestyle Changes to Improve Your Health
Paula Gallagher on
Some of the top causes of death amongst Americans are related to lifestyle. The good news is that the risk of heart disease, cancer, respiratory illness and stroke can all be reduced with lifestyle changes.
Research suggests that the United States spends well over $7,000 per person per year on healthcare, more than twice the average of many other countries. Yet, the average life expectancy in the United States is far below many other nations that spend less on healthcare each year.
Here are four lifestyle changes to improve your health and help prevent disease.
1. Stop smoking. Tobacco use is the single most avoidable cause of disease, disability, and death in the United States. Although we all know the detrimental effects that smoking has on our bodies, one in five Americans still smokes. The health benefits of quitting smoking are numerous, and many are experienced rapidly. According to the Centers for Disease Control, within 2 weeks to 3 months after quitting, heart attack risk begins to drop and lung function begins to improve. One year after quitting, excess risk for heart disease is reduced by half, and 10 years after quitting, the lung cancer death rate is about half that of a current smoker. Fifteen years after quitting, an ex-smoker’s risk for heart disease is about the same as that of a lifelong nonsmoker.
2. Cut down on drinking. Although there may be benefits to a glass of wine or a pint of beer, excessive drinking is the U.S.'s third leading lifestyle-related cause of death and is associated
with a wide range of health and social problems, including acute myocardial infarction, liver failure, unintended pregnancy, and violence.
3. Get moving. Regular physical activity is one of the most important things a person can do to stay healthy. Not only will physical activity increase one’s chances of living longer – it can also help control weight; reduce risks for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and some cancers; strengthen bones and muscles; improve mental health and mood; and improve ability to do daily activities and prevent falls among older adults.
4. Lose excess weight. This may be the most difficult, but good nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight can help lower risk for many chronic diseases including heart disease, stroke, some cancers, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables helps reduce the risk for heart disease and certain cancers, as well.
If you would like help with any of these lifestyle changes, we offer nutritional counseling with naturopathic doctors, herbalists and nutritionists. To book a consultation, please click here.
Photo from here, with thanks.
Categories
Categories
Humanized Health - NEW!
Learn about personalized health from top experts! Check out our fascinating new shows every week, available as videos, podcasts and transcripts.:
Our Bloggers
-
Paula Gallagher
Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
read more.. -
Margo Gladding
Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
read more.. -
Dr. Neal Barnard
Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
read more.. -
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
read more.. -
Debi Silber
Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
read more..
SEE ALL OF OUR BLOGGERS
Invalid password
Enter
Learning Resources
Consultations
Green Initiatives
Pharmacy/Compounding
Humanized Health
Village Green Blog
Stay Connected
Village Green Apothecary
5415 W Cedar Ln
Bethesda, Maryland, 20814
(301) 530-0800
Toll Free: (800) 869-9159
The information provided on this site is not intended to be a substitute for advice or treatment from a qualified physician, nor is it intended to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Consult your physician prior to starting any new health program or if you any questions regarding a medical condition.
© 2023 Village Green Apothecary - All Rights Reserved.