You may have heard the term “holistic” health before, but do you understand what it means? Unlike homeopathy, which may be the first thing that comes to mind, holistic health refers to taking a whole-body approach to wellness. In essence, the body is seen as an interconnected system where everything impacts everything else. But why does this matter? Researchers have found that a holistic approach to health could be your best defense against conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. In fact, adopting a healthy lifestyle that defends against one of these conditions can protect you against them all.
Shedding light on the shared risk factors between different conditions, Tim Byers, associate director for cancer prevention and control at the Colorado University Cancer Center, says that medical researchers tend to look at conditions in isolation, rather than considering shared risk factors. For instance, when you lose a significant amount of weight around your middle, you reduce the amount of abdominal fat that would ordinarily inflame your immune system. This inflammation can cause various problems in your arteries and major organs.
The Impact of Obesity
Obesity has been flagged as a major risk factor for many serious conditions. The World Cancer Research Foundation has noted that obesity is so serious it may be responsible for one in five cases of colon, pancreas, breast, kidney, esophagus, endometrium, and gallbladder cancers in the United States. Similarly, obesity increases your risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. The World Heart Federation links 58 percent of cases of type 2 diabetes and 21 percent of ischemic heart disease to obesity.
Byers explains that being overweight leads to a chronic inflammatory state and the circulation of growth factors that negatively impact the heart and contribute to cancer development. The interconnectedness of these diseases requires a holistic and proactive approach when aiming for better health and longevity.
A Holistic Approach to Reducing Your Health Risks
To lower your risk for cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, consider adopting the following healthy habits:
- Improve your diet: Focus on incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your daily meals; try to eliminate processed foods that have high levels of refined sugar and damaged fats.
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Avoid tobacco: Stay away from cigarettes and other tobacco products.
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Exercise: Make it a point to engage in regular physical activity.
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Limit alcohol consumption: Reduce the number of alcoholic beverages you consume.
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Get enough sleep: Prioritizing a good night’s sleep is vital for overall health and well-being. A wealth of research has demonstrated the role of sleep in maintaining heart health, blood sugar regulation, and reducing the risk of cancer.
By incorporating these holistic practices into your daily routine, you can improve your health, remain active, and enjoy life well into your golden years. It’s never too late to start prioritizing your overall well-being, so why not begin your journey toward holistic health today?
