Taking a realistic look at our health: A state of emergency
There is no question that we have challenges when it comes to the health condition of our population. When we consider that conditions such as heart disease and diabetes account for over 65 percent of deaths and are on the rise we have to stop and take a look at what we are doing to contribute to these numbers and identify what we can do better. We try different diets and try to make changes but when those changes fail or we give up, we go back to the same habits.
In reality, we have accepted various symptoms as normal when challenges such as fatigue, weakened immune systems, gastrointestinal complaints and joint discomfort can be indicators of poor nutrition. If we look at symptoms caused by nutritional deficiencies, we can begin to look at how our dietary habits may be contributing to our challenges. Symptoms of poor nutrition include obesity, premature aging, increased cardiovascular disease, increased rates of dementia and anxiety. By making simple changes in our dietary lifestyle, we can take charge of our health and can begin steps toward the lifestyle we want.
In 1822, the average American consumed about 45 grams of sugar every five days equivalent to approximately one can of soda. Today, the average American consumes about 765 grams of sugar every 5 days which is about 130 pounds a year.
Refined sugar has no nutritional value and is linked to obesity, hypertension, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia, depression, headaches, fatigue, nervous tension, aching limbs, acne, diabetes, skin irritation and stiffening of arteries. It is also considered addictive. Over time, our bad eating habits and lifestyle create a toxic environment that can affect our health.
Cardiovascular Disease:
Accounts for 12.4 million doctor office visits annually. Only 5 percent of cardiovascular disease is genetic. Ninety-five percent is attributed to modifiable factors like diet, sleep and exercise.
Osteoporosis:
After we reach peak bone mass, we lose bone mass at a faster rate than we build it up. Post-menopausal women can lose up to 20 percent of their bone mineral density within the first five to seven years following the onset of menopause. The United States has the highest rates of osteoporosis in the world, yet we consume the most dairy products.
Diabetes:
Nine percent of adults in the United States are diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. In 2013, the United States spent over $66.5 billion on dieting, and our weight is still increasing.
These are just some of the health issues associated with obesity. If you want to take a proactive approach to your health be sure to have an annual exam and labs so you can identify a potential problem before it occurs. This is how we practice at Physicals Plus, we believe that early intervention will help with prevention!
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