What is the difference between words normal and healthy?

The terms "normal" and "healthy" are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two.

Normal refers to what is typical or average for a given population. For example, the normal range for blood pressure is considered to be between 120/80 mmHg and 140/90 mmHg. Anything outside of this range is considered to be abnormal.

Healthy, on the other hand, refers to a state of physical, mental, and social well-being. This means that a person is not only free from disease or illness, but they are also functioning optimally both physically and mentally.

So, while something may be normal, it may not necessarily be healthy. For example, it is normal for people to gain weight as they age, but this does not mean that it is healthy. In fact, obesity is a major risk factor for a number of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Conversely, something may be healthy even if it is not normal. For example, some people may have a blood pressure that is lower than the normal range, but this does not necessarily mean that they are unhealthy. In fact, a lower blood pressure may actually be beneficial for reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Ultimately, the best way to determine whether something is healthy or not is to consult with a medical professional. They can assess your individual situation and determine what is best for you.

Healthy Eating - Related Articles