Healthy - What Does It Mean?

What Does Healthy Mean?

We see the term “healthy” everywhere.  Healthy foods, recipes, bowls, stores, restaurants, snacks and exercises.  Healthy means that you are in good health, and everyone’s definition of healthy may be a bit different depending on your individual health status and medical diagnoses.  It’s important that you know what that word means specifically for you, so you make the best choices for yourself.

Here are a few examples of how this title can be misleading.

A recipe using garlic might not be the best selection for you if you have GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).  While garlic has beneficial properties such as lowering blood pressure or cholesterol, it can trigger heartburn for those who have GERD.

The same recipe may call for salt, and if you have high blood pressure (hypertension), then you will need to modify the recipe to make it appropriate for you.  Salt intake can increase blood pressure readings so your healthcare provider may have recommended that you reduce your intake of salt or eliminate it altogether.

You may see an advertisement for exercises to improve your health.  Consider what the exercise regimen entails.  If you have problems with your knees, certain movements can actually put more strain on your knee joints and cause pain or inflammation.

Have you driven by a health food store?  We automatically get the impression that everything inside the store is good for our bodies.  I typically shop at one of these markets and I have to pay attention to the nutritional labels to help guide me in making wise food choices.  This health food store carries delicious ice cream and baked goods, but they contain a lot of sugar and saturated fats.

As we are surrounded by media that boasts healthy options, consider what that means for you. Do not assume that because it’s listed as “healthy”, that it is the best choice for you.  There certainly are great options out there, so identify what’s important to you in achieving a healthier lifestyle.  

Make a plan towards your healthier lifestyle goal, and if you need help getting started, check out Health And Wellness For Seniors | Wellness Strategies Group.