Preventive Health Care Tips
A good diet and proper exercise are two of the most effective ways to prevent health problems, both now and in the future. However, seeing your doctor regularly is another important way to keep yourself healthy. By getting regular check-ups and staying up-to-date on preventative measures like flu-shots, you avoid costly consequences that can impact both your health and your finances.
Here's a preventative care checklist to keep in mind for a healthy today and tomorrow:
- Make sure you have a primary healthcare provider as a trusted source of good regular care.
- Schedule regular check-ups, even if you feel fine.
- Find time to focus on your health daily.
- Actively seek out ways to reduce high levels of stress.
- Get regular exercise. Just 15 to 30 minutes a day can make all the difference.
- Get age and gender appropriate cancer screenings regularly.
- If you smoke, stop. Ask for help from your primary healthcare provider for your best chance of long-term success.
Resources
Mayo Clinic (www.mayoclinic.com)
The Mayo Clinic offers medical tips and information regarding all three aspects of a fitness-conscious lifestyle. Read about the benefits of staying active, tips on how to eat well, and essentials to beginning a healthy routine.
United States Department of Agriculture: MyPyramid (www.mypyramid.gov)
The national standard for nutritional research, the USDA's MyPyramid provides tools to customize your diet to be as healthy as possible, based on various traits about you and your lifestyle. The USDA also provides a wealth of tips and advice for making healthier choices every day.