The 7 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Chances of Chronic Diseases

People are beginning to live longer and longer. Once you make it to age 65, data suggests that you can live up to another 20 plus years. However when you live over 85, you are highly likely to live with at least one chronic condition. Chronic problems include stroke, cancer, diabetes, COPD and heart disease.

The mental, physical and financial costs of chronic illnesses are extremely high. There are ways you can live your life, though, that will put you at a much lower risk for developing one of these chronic conditions. Some health factors, such as a positive diet and good exercise, will keep these diseases at bay. The trick to prevention is starting early, and getting serious about your health for the future. The quicker you begin, the better your chances will be.

Here are seven prevention tips that will get you started on a healthy body for life.

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

Shutterstock.com

Junk food, as we all already know, isn’t good for you. Junk food is calorie dense and nutrient poor and plays a significant role in obesity. It causes chronically high insulin levels as well. Due to these processed foods being loaded with high-sodium, they can contribute to high blood pressure, and heart, liver and kidney diseases. A healthy diet, however, can do wonders for the body. Having a diet rich in nutrient dense foods can reduce inflammation and risk of disease. Keep a moderate, balanced diet for optimal results. Fruits and veggies should be a wide range of colors and sizes to so that you can get a diverse amount of nutrients.

Don’t Smoke and Drink in Moderation

Shutterstock.com

Tobacco use increases the risk of contracting a chronic disease, particularly cancer and heart disease. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do, begin taking the steps toward living tobacco-free. There are lots of different avenues you can take to help you quit. For example you can seek help from your doctor, who can prescribe cessation aids and information for support groups. Excessive alcohol consumption also is a risk factor for many chronic diseases and conditions, including liver disease and immune system problems. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation. Moderate alcohol use for healthy adults means up to one drink a day for women of all ages and men older than age 65, and up to two drinks a day for men age 65 and younger.