As years are rolling by, we face many changes around us, may it be technology or lifestyle. One thing that is often forgotten is adapting to such changes, so as to always lead a healthy life. Today's world demands more and more from each individual and an extra mile has to be travelled, in order to survive. How can such exertion be made possible, without a sound health?
It is often quoted, that the body is the temple of the soul. There should never be a compromise on things that pertain to the health of an individual. Even as one strives for quality education, a lucrative job and an affluent life, equal importance must be given to the care of one's health. There are some factors to be kept in mind and reflected as and when needed during the course of life.
EAT SMART:
As it is understood, food plays THE major role in one's health. The choice of food must be made based on the lifestyle of the individual. For example, those who are occupied in jobs that demand physical labour, must make sure that they consume enough amount of energy yielding food, so as to compensate for the loss of energy while doing work. The following chart says which is the right food for a particular lifestyle:
Hard Physical Labour:
Such people need to make sure that their diet consists of enough supply of carbohydrates. In India however, this should not be a concern, as rice is the staple diet, which provides much of the carbohydrate needed by the body.
Sedentary Workers:
This includes the category of people who do "on the desk" jobs and do not have enough physical exercise. They need more amount of proteins, vitamins and minerals along with minimum amount of carbohydrates.
Children:
The nutritional requirements of children vary as they grow, the requirement being highest during adolescence. When the child is an infant, the mother's milk is the ideal food that can be given, as it contains the essential nutrients as well as substances that induce immunity. Awareness must be created amongst people of the lower sections of the society, about the importance of feeding infants with mother's milk. The nutrition of the child, occupies the seat of priority, as it is only during childhood, that the body grows to the maximum.
Nowadays, people prefer fast food, as it suits their tastes and fast paced lifestyle. Even though these foodstuffs give the satiety, they do only more harm in the longer run. Even youngsters these days complain of heartburns, ulcers and gastroenteritis, the culprit being junk food. Such foods must be cut down and healthier alternatives such as fibrous foods (whole wheat bread, oats), fruits, green vegetables etc must be sought.
STRETCH OUT AND EXERCISE:
Exercise must not be looked down upon as a cumbersome chore, but must become a part of life, just as how we eat and sleep. A little portion of the day must be kept aside for physical workout and exercises. While affluent people can head to gyms and fitness centers, those who cannot afford such, can very well stay at home and still get their share. Walking, jogging are some exercises that anyone can do irrespective of age and gender. Swimming, cycling are excellent choices as they relax both the mind and the body as well. Each part of the body must be given due importance and toned well so that the exercise is wholesome.
Obesity is now considered as a disease. People with obese bodylines must wake up to the reality and do the needful (diet and exercise) before its too late. Obesity if left untreated, may lead to clinical conditions such as Atherosclerosis and Myocardial Infarction.
SOUND MIND GIVES WAY TO A SOUND BODY:
Along with all the care that is taken for the body, the mind must be kept healthy with good and light thoughts. If the mind is not at rest, it will definitely reflect on the physical health. Having a good environment around, catching up with loved ones and friends, bringing up a pet, cultivating hobbies and involving oneself in societal developments keeps the mind occupied with productive thoughts and prevents stress from eating away the mind. Having a stroll, listening to soft music, playing indoor and outdoor games can follow long working hours at work place.
Following such simple rules can benefit the body to a great degree and improve a person's health status by several measures. Being healthy not only benefits a single individual, but also contributes to the goodness of the entire society and the nation.