The month of March has been dedicated to celebrating women globally. As a multi-specialty research site network organization, we would be focusing on women’s health. Healthy habits are the best ways to avoid disease, prolong your life, and live more happily. But in the chaos of a woman’s daily life, healthy living may take a back seat due to chores, work, busy schedules, family, and more. Take these simple steps towards a longer, healthier life.
Exercise more often
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for American women. In the United States, 1 in 4 women dies from heart disease. Exercise is one of the best ways to prevent heart disease. It’s also beneficial for your mental and bone health. Aim for 30 minutes of aerobics or cardio, which includes:
- Walking
- Jogging
- Dancing
- Swimming
Mix routines up and keep your exercise plans exciting plans by trying different activities. Invite a friend to join you for accountability and encouragement.
Eat and maintain a healthy balanced diet
A nourishing diet is a foundation for a healthy lifestyle. Beyond weight loss and maintenance, eating a balanced diet is crucial to a woman’s overall health. Good food provides vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are important for growth, wellbeing, and development. Eating a balanced diet starts with avoiding unhealthy foods.
Packaged and processed foods are often full of sugar, salt, unhealthy fats, and calories. Avoid fake stuff, and opt for the good stuff, such as:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Fiber-rich food such as beans and leafy greens
- Fresh fish
- Lean cuts of meat and poultry
- Healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, and olive oil
- Low-fat dairy
Women vitamins
You can take daily multivitamins but eating vitamin-rich food serves up the extra benefits of healthy fiber and minerals. However, you should meet your vitamins, mineral, and fiber requirement without the need for a supplement.
Healthy aging
For women, healthy aging depends largely on healthy living which includes eating a healthy diet, staying active, and having regular health screening. Healthy aging also emphasizes things you shouldn’t do such as using tobacco products and drinking excess alcohol.
A healthy sex life
A woman’s sexual health needs span decades and encompass a variety of issues, from preventing unintended pregnancy to boosting a sagging libido.
Ways to have a healthy sex life
- Understanding sexually transmitted diseases and infections
- Practice safer sex
- Prevent HIV with PrEP pills
- Preventive vaccines like HPV, Hepatitis A, and B
- Get screened for STIs
- Get a regular pap smear test
Breast health
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in American women. If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, your risk of developing this condition is higher. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women of average risk have a mammogram screening every two years between the ages of 50 and 74. They also recommend that women with an average risk of developing cancer have their first screening in their 40s. However, many doctors and medical groups disagree with USPSTF and still recommend yearly mammograms starting at age 40. Your doctor may recommend you start earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer. Likewise, these medical professionals also encourage women to conduct self-exams monthly starting at age 20.