Introduction and Theme
One of the contemporary issues in American society is the practice of unhealthy lifestyles. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), “the modern American lifestyle has led people to eat more unhealthy foods, eat bigger food portions, and be less physically active” (ACS 2013). Rising caloric and fat content in the majority of our foods has put a strain on the American diet and furthered obesity. If such issues are not addressed, this could lead to an increasing number of severe health consequences. It is important for people to take a step back and reflect on how to properly live a healthy lifestyle. This analysis will cover three sections which the reader can use to achieve healthy weight loss. The first section …show more content…
The first step to putting together a healthy eating plan is to understand the basics of nutrition. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute considers a healthy eating plan as “a diet low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugar” (NHLBI 2012). The second step to creating a healthy eating plan is to learn about the food pyramid. A healthy diet should include food choices from each of the 5 food groups. The United States Department of Agriculture suggests that “when preparing meals, include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy products, and lean protein foods. These foods provide nutrients with fewer calories” (UDA 2014). The last step adults can use to lose weight is by keeping track of calories. In order to lose 1 to 2 pounds a week, adults should cut back their regular calorie intake by 500 to 1,000 calories a day (NHLBI 2012). Overall, the benefits resulting from a healthy diet include a healthy heart, an increase in energy levels throughout the day, and increase in self-confidence. Together, proper nutrition makes healthy habits to benefit you for life and body …show more content…
Exercise is an important way for people to lose weight and fulfill a healthy lifestyle. According to the U.S Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF), “one needs to balance calories with physical activity to maintain a healthy weight” (USPSTF 2013). By exercising, it allows people to stay in shape and maintain their health. Although some may have a good understanding of managing their health, it takes commitment to successfully implement a weight loss program.
There are three specific methods individuals can use to become physically active. Cardio is a method of exercise that is low impact and high intensity. This workout is key to losing weight because it raises your heart rate and burns calories. The second method of exercise is strength training. Strength training helps a person strengthen and condition their muscles by lifting weights. Stretching is another exercise method that can help you improve your fitness level as well as reduce your risk for injury. Stretch before and after every workout to reduce the risk of injury. One of the most important things you can do is exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, “For greater health benefits, try to step up your level of activity or the length of time you 're active. For example, start walking for 10 to 15 minutes three times
One of the contemporary issues in American society is the practice of unhealthy lifestyles. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), “the modern American lifestyle has led people to eat more unhealthy foods, eat bigger food portions, and be less physically active” (ACS 2013). Rising caloric and fat content in the majority of our foods has put a strain on the American diet and furthered obesity. If such issues are not addressed, this could lead to an increasing number of severe health consequences. It is important for people to take a step back and reflect on how to properly live a healthy lifestyle. This analysis will cover three sections which the reader can use to achieve healthy weight loss. The first section …show more content…
The first step to putting together a healthy eating plan is to understand the basics of nutrition. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute considers a healthy eating plan as “a diet low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugar” (NHLBI 2012). The second step to creating a healthy eating plan is to learn about the food pyramid. A healthy diet should include food choices from each of the 5 food groups. The United States Department of Agriculture suggests that “when preparing meals, include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy products, and lean protein foods. These foods provide nutrients with fewer calories” (UDA 2014). The last step adults can use to lose weight is by keeping track of calories. In order to lose 1 to 2 pounds a week, adults should cut back their regular calorie intake by 500 to 1,000 calories a day (NHLBI 2012). Overall, the benefits resulting from a healthy diet include a healthy heart, an increase in energy levels throughout the day, and increase in self-confidence. Together, proper nutrition makes healthy habits to benefit you for life and body …show more content…
Exercise is an important way for people to lose weight and fulfill a healthy lifestyle. According to the U.S Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF), “one needs to balance calories with physical activity to maintain a healthy weight” (USPSTF 2013). By exercising, it allows people to stay in shape and maintain their health. Although some may have a good understanding of managing their health, it takes commitment to successfully implement a weight loss program.
There are three specific methods individuals can use to become physically active. Cardio is a method of exercise that is low impact and high intensity. This workout is key to losing weight because it raises your heart rate and burns calories. The second method of exercise is strength training. Strength training helps a person strengthen and condition their muscles by lifting weights. Stretching is another exercise method that can help you improve your fitness level as well as reduce your risk for injury. Stretch before and after every workout to reduce the risk of injury. One of the most important things you can do is exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, “For greater health benefits, try to step up your level of activity or the length of time you 're active. For example, start walking for 10 to 15 minutes three times