The Importance of Preventative Care: Stay Healthy for a Fulfilling Life

What’s the point of working 40+ years of your life if you’re not well enough—or not here at all—to enjoy the fruits of your labor when those years are complete?

I say this as someone who has lost loved ones and fears losing more due to a lack of preventative care (i.e., annual physicals/gyno). We gotta keep it real!

Understanding Preventative Care

Preventative care refers to any measures taken to prevent disease and promote health. This typically involves your annual physicals and annual gynecological exams for those who have a vagina.

Elements of Preventative Care

Preventative care not only encompasses regular check-ups but also includes several other vital aspects of health:

• Adequate Nutrition & Hydration: Meeting both energy and micronutrient needs is essential for healthy living. A balanced diet supports overall health, vitality, and longevity.

  
  

• Adequate Sleep: It’s important to ensure you get enough hours of sleep (7-9 hours, with women generally needing more than men). Quality matters too—did you know that silent sleep apnea exists?

  
  

• Stress Management: Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues. If you’ve lived with stress for a long time or experienced trauma, you may be grappling with chronic stress without realizing it!

  
  

• Optimizing Mental Health: Engaging in therapy, setting boundaries, and spending time outdoors can significantly boost your mental well-being.

  
  

• Adequate Dental Care: Regular dental visits are crucial. Poor oral health can impact heart health, among other conditions!

  
  

• Adequate Movement: Did you know we begin losing muscle at a faster rate after age 30? Incorporating strength training and cardio into your routine can help combat this.

  
  

• Building and Maintaining Positive Relationships: Your social life significantly affects your well-being and longevity. Positive relationships contribute to a happier and healthier life.

  
  

Barriers to Accessing Care

Despite the importance of preventative care, this country (USA) does not make it easy to prioritize health. Many people have to work 40+ hours a week just to make ends meet. Balancing work with other responsibilities while maintaining healthy relationships can be overwhelming.

The lack of universal healthcare further limits access to both preventative care and adequate healthcare. Societal norms often lead us to prioritize productivity above our health. Many people even tie their self-worth to what they can accomplish at work. Sadly, this can result in delaying necessary medical visits for years simply because they “don’t have time.”

Unlearning Toxic Productivity Culture

It’s vital to understand that you can unlearn this mindset! Making time for your health should be a priority. Though I understand how challenging this can be, especially for some individuals, prioritizing your health is essential.

Take a moment for self-reflection. For everyone, including those working long hours, the question remains: Is your health worth it? I urge you to recognize that you only get one body. Prioritizing preventative care is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Take Action

Check out my recent post on socials about preventative care if you haven't seen it yet: https://www.instagram.com/foodfullcircle/reel/DKu7f7NP-AY/.

If you're ready to make nutrition a part of your preventative care, reach out here: foodfullcircle.org/contact.

By focusing on preventative care, we can better position ourselves to enjoy life. Don't wait until it’s too late. Your health is too important to neglect. Let’s prioritize well-being and ensure a fuller, happier life together!