A recent Pulse Asia survey revealed that “staying healthy and avoiding illnesses” is still the top personal concern of Filipinos across all regions and socioeconomic classes.
Given the fast-paced life and stress brought about by technology and work, respectively, staying healthy may not seem as easy as people like to think. In fact, a majority of today’s workers live a sedentary lifestyle. This increases the risk of them having chronic diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. Equally alarming is the rise in stress-related diseases, like heart disease, which is afflicting younger people.
That is why Healthway Medical, the most trusted and preferred network of mall-based clinics in the country, developed the SEED Lifestyle, which promotes health awareness and preventive healthcare. It is made up of four simple, easy-to-remember health tips that will help Filipinos to take charge of their own health:
Sleep. Sleep is essential for our bodies to regenerate. It affects our memory, longevity and overall health by helping the body repair itself. It also reduces stress and inflammation. Adults are advised to have seven to nine hours of sound, uninterrupted sleep.
To make your sleeping experience better, schedule your time for bed. It is also advisable that your room has a good and relaxing atmosphere. Try turning off the lights and listening to relaxing music and minimizing the use of electronic gadgets before sleeping. Avoid eating before sleeping, as this will disrupt the sleep cycle.
Eat right. Many of the diseases affecting us are directly tied to poor eating habits. A diet high in sugars, saturated fats, and sodium is responsible for such illnesses as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Eliminating or reducing the consumption of foods rich in these will go a long way in ensuring a healthier body.
Eating a well-blanced diet of unrefined carbohydrates, like brown rice, lean meat, green leafy vegetables that are high in fiber, and fresh fruits are best in order to stay healthy. If you have a sweet tooth, always remember to exercise moderation and avoid indulging in sweets often.
Exercise. The benefits of exercise cannot be overemphasized. As clichéd as it sounds, exercising is still one of the best ways to ward off diseases. It does not only promote weight loss, but also boosts brainpower and performance, increases metabolism, improves blood circulation, and reduces stress. Being stuck in front of your desk is not an excuse to not exercise. There are simple office exercises you can learn to get rid of neck and back pain.
De-stress. De-stressing helps relax the body and mind. Among the countless ways to do this are meditation, eating mood-boosting foods, getting a massage, and taking up a hobby. As the name suggests, however, getting rid of anxiety should not be stressful. It is important to determine which activities relax and energize you and which do not.
“The greatest wealth is still our health. Achieving material wealth is pointless if it comes at the expense of your health,” said Carmie de Leon, vice president for sales and marketing of Healthway Medical.
“Helping Filipinos to stay well and healthy has always been the core purpose of Healthway Medical. Aside from the SEED Lifestyle, our patients can also count on the quality medical services and excellent patient-care experience that our clinic and our qualified doctors offer.”
Visit Healthway Medical branches at Alabang Town Center, Greenbelt 5, Shangri-La Plaza, SM The Block, Market! Market!, Festival Mall, and 8 Adriatico to avail yourself of their extensive services.
For more information, visit healthway.com.ph.