Importance of exercise and healthy eating

Eating right and exercising regularly will help you maintain weight and reduce your risk of disease.

Regular exercise and eating a healthy diet can have a number of benefits, including increased energy, happiness, health, and even a longer life. Exercise and diet are critical to determining a person’s overall health, and making both a part of their lifestyle can make a dramatic difference in how you look and feel.

Health benefits

According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, a healthy diet should consist of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean meats. In addition to eating well, you should also minimize your intake of cholesterol, sodium, sugar, and saturated fat. Along with regular exercise, a healthy diet can lower your risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and some cancers.

Weight

If you are overweight, eating healthy and exercising regularly can help you lose weight safely and keep it off. If you don’t have a weight problem, physical activity and a healthy diet can help you maintain your current weight and reduce your risk of gaining weight as you age. Healthy foods are generally lower in calories and higher in nutrients than other foods, and regular physical activity burns extra calories to maintain a healthy physique.

Energy

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a combination of exercise and eating healthy foods can increase your energy level and help you feel more alert and aware, both mentally and physically. Healthy foods give your body the nutrients and vitamins it needs to function at its best.

Mood

Exercise stimulates brain chemicals that help produce feelings of happiness, contentment, and relaxation, so you’ll feel better if you exercise regularly. Physical activity can also improve your physical appearance as you burn fat and build muscle, which is an important factor in increasing your self-confidence and inspiring a satisfied life.

Diversification

Exercise and healthy eating can help make your life more diverse and interesting. Find creative ways to stay physically active in your daily life and don’t stick to the same exercise routine all the time. Exercise with coworkers, go dancing with friends, play on a sports team, and spend active time with your kids and family. Eating a healthy diet can also provide opportunities for home cooking, culinary classes, visits to the farmers market, and more fun activities.