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General Health

Looking after your general health involves maintaining physical, mental, and social well-being by managing diet, physical activity, sleep, and stress. Proactive lifestyle choices, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol and sun exposure, and getting regular medical checkups can help you prevent or manage many physical health conditions that affect general well-being. Working on mental health through gratitude or relaxation techniques and connection to others is essential for supporting mental health.

Common Questions & Answers

What are the key components of general health?

The pillars of good overall health are centered on maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, robust sleep, and effective stress management. Leaving space to practice mindfulness, gratitude, and social interactions supports mental health.

Stress can increase your risk of many diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, heart disease, and stroke. It might also lead to anxiety, fatigue, headaches, chest pain, changes in eating habits, sleep issues, and drug, tobacco, or alcohol abuse.

Good sleep is a cornerstone of general health. It’s vital for preserving brain function, restoring energy, processing memories and learning, promoting hormonal balance, and supporting your metabolic, respiratory, and immune systems. Discuss sleep issues with a healthcare professional.

Vaccinations, regular screenings and checkups, good hygiene including handwashing and safe food prep, safety precautions like seat belts and helmets when appropriate, and healthy lifestyle habits are the best ways to preserve general health.

Strong social ties can support stress, depression, and anxiety management; improve eating and physical activity habits; and enhance sleep. In doing so, they may reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia and support a longer, healthier life.

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Resources
  1. Healthy Living. MedlinePlus. April 26, 2023.

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