How to Learn Better Health

Everyone can benefit from learning practices that promote better health. According to Dr Georges C. Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, "Our nation's health is in poor shape, despite spending more money on treatment than any other country." Recent surveys have revealed that while people believe they understand about how to live a healthier life, there are many common misconceptions about what constitutes healthy. The APHA is responding by increasing efforts to educate the American public on healthy living.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep a daily food journal to learn how healthy your diet is. While only 11 percent of Americans admit to being very overweight or obese, recent figures show that the true figure is 68 percent. This huge disparity means that we must become more aware of what we're eating and gain a better understanding of the value of food.

  Write every single thing down, from the sugar you add to your breakfast cereal to the occasional cookie you snack on at work. When every dollop of ketchup, every spoonful of mayonnaise and every sugary drink is honestly noted, you're well on your way to understanding how well your diet is working for you.

• 2

  Analyze the food journal with your healthcare provider. Assess the nutritional balance of your diet, making additions where necessary and removing unhealthy elements wherever you can. Make a list of the foods you need to include in your diet every day. These should work together to give you energy, satisfy your hunger and keep your weight at a healthy level.

• 3

  Get an online checkup. Do this now on the Department of Human Services website (see Resources) to learn about your health, lifestyle and whether you're at risk from illness and diseases. From the "virtual allergist" that helps you identify the sources of your allergy symptoms, to a "men's health" general quiz, this health-assessment tool can give you an illuminating appraisal of your wellness.

• 4

  Be a knowledgeable healthcare consumer. The Internet has opened up a world of information we could once only get through our family doctors. While we should always consult professional healthcare providers, it's hard to avoid the information that's out there and easy to become confused. Learn to navigate the press releases, media reports and websites and sort the bad advice from the good.

  Government agencies, nonprofit and professional organizations all offer reliable advice and can educate you on the best ways to be healthy. Visit sites that offer health consumer tools and access to advice from reputable expert healthcare professionals (see Resources).