Not many are familiar with the term ‘Lifestyle disease’. The simplest description of this term would be – a disease that is caused due to the health-damaging choices that we make in our day-to-day life.
It is estimated that worldwide, approximately 14.2 million people between the age of 30 to 70 die every year due to Lifestyle diseases. Cardio-vascular diseases, diabetes, sleep -disorders, stress obesity and some forms of cancers can be listed under the section of Lifestyle diseases.
The World Health Organization has identified India as one of the nations that is going to have most of the lifestyle disorders in the near future. Nowadays, not only are lifestyle disorders becoming more common, but they are also affecting the younger population. Hence, the population at risk shifts from 40+ to maybe 30+ or even younger. Already considered the diabetes capital of the world, India now appears headed toward gaining another dubious distinction of becoming the lifestyle-related disease capital as well.
A study conducted jointly by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences and Max Hospital shows the incidence of hypertension, obesity, and heart disease is increasing at an alarming rate, especially in the young, urban population. According to the doctors, a sedentary lifestyle combined with an increase in the consumption of fatty food and alcohol is to blame cases of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and so on.
PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE :
A wholesome diet is absolutely essential for your health & wellbeing. You have to acknowledge the fact that good health is all about taking charge and doing what’s right for your body.
- Eat more green veggies, fresh fruits, calcium & fiber rich foods
- Switch to whole grain/multi grain flour.
- Reduce your portion size and eat at regular intervals (every 2 hours)
- Eliminate or at least try to limit the consumption of oily food
- Replace junk food with healthy snacks
- Drink plenty of water
- Anything in excess is bad for health. High intake of Sugar, Salt, & Oil can lead to serious repercussions in the form of diabetes, blood pressure and heart problems (due to high cholesterol). Cut down the usage of these 3 ingredients in your food.
- Make sure you keep a close watch on your body weight. Extra weight especially near the tummy has been linked with cardiovascular deaths. People who are obese & overweight are also at risk for many more serious health conditions like sleep apnea, diabetes and cancer
- Take good care of your body – it’s the only place you live in. Periodic health check-ups can offer a thorough analysis of your current health status. Moreover, it also helps in early diagnosis and timely treatment of any kind of illness. Schedule an appointment for a comprehensive health check-up once in every 6 months.