There are several reasons young people might not be focusing on their health. For one, they may not feel the need to because they are healthy and don’t have anything to worry about because they are in their peak years. Additionally, many young people are busy with school, work, and social activities and may not have time to focus on their health. Finally, young people may not be aware of the importance of good health or the risks associated with poor health habits.
According to the National Institutes of Health, young people (aged 10-24) account for more than one-third of all chronic health conditions in the United States. Additionally, half of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14, and suicide is the third leading cause of death for young people aged 15-24. Good health is essential for young people, and should prioritize them. However, it might be challenging for them to stay health-conscious without an established guide. Here are a few key areas young people should focus on to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Watching What You Eat
One of the most important things young people can do for their health is to focus on their diet. Eating a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for maintaining good health and can help young people avoid chronic diseases later in life. Additionally, eating healthy foods can help young people maintain a healthy weight, which is essential for both physical and mental health.
There are a few key things to remember when it comes to eating healthy as a young person:
- Focus on getting plenty of fruits and vegetables. Eating various colors and types of products is essential, as each color group offers extra vitamins and minerals.
- Include lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, tofu, and beans, in your diet.
- Choose whole grains over processed or refined grains. Whole grains are a good source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health.
- Limit your sugary drinks and foods and saturated and unhealthy fats.
Exercising Regularly
In addition to focusing on their diet, young people should also exercise regularly. Exercise has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health and can help young people stay healthy into adulthood. Some benefits of exercise include improved cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and endurance, bone health, and mental health.
There are a few things to keep in mind when exercising as a young person:
- Find an activity you enjoy and can stick with long-term. There’s no point in starting an exercise routine you hate and won’t stick with because you don’t like it.
- Make sure to focus on both aerobic and strength-training exercises. Aerobic exercise is essential for cardiovascular health, while strength-training practices are important for maintaining muscle mass and bone density.
- Set realistic goals for yourself, and don’t try to do too much too soon.
Start slow and gradually increase the intensity and frequency of your workouts as you get more comfortable.
If you are coming from a sedentary lifestyle, consult a doctor before starting any new exercise routine, as some risks are associated with sudden and drastic changes in activity level.
Visiting the Doctor Regularly
Another important thing young people can do for their health is to visit the doctor regularly. This is especially important for young people with chronic health conditions or at risk of developing one. However, even young people who are generally healthy should see their doctor for routine check-ups. These appointments provide an opportunity to catch any potential health problems early and to get advice on how to stay healthy.
When visiting the doctor, some things to remember include knowing your family’s medical history, being honest about your lifestyle and habits, and staying prepared with questions. Knowing your family medical history can help your doctor identify any potential health risks you may face. Being honest about your lifestyle and habits, such as smoking or drinking, will help your doctor give you accurate advice. Finally, being prepared with questions will help you make the most of your appointment.
Doctors are not the only medical visits to prioritize. You might also need a dentist, especially if you have not been visiting in a while. Dental cleanings and exams can help remove tartar, which can cause gum disease if not removed. Having a dentist will also be ideal should your teeth get knocked out. You won’t have to worry about scheduling replacement tooth services when you have a dentist.
Final Thoughts
There are many things young people can do to stay healthy. Eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and visiting the doctor periodically are all critical for maintaining good health. Focusing on these areas can help young people stay healthy into adulthood.
