What does ‘healthy’ imply? Many studies have instituted the components of health. However, there are outliers to the parameters set forth by said studies. This write-up is an overview of what comprises ‘healthy’. Many people approach health according to culture, personal preferences and proximity. What is healthy for one my be totally antithetical to another. Long life and good health may or may not coexist. That is something to consider.
Health is defined as 1) ‘the state of being free from illness or injury’ 2) ‘ a person’s mental or physical condition‘, 3) ‘used to express friendly feelings toward one’s companions before drinking’. Healthy is defined as 1) ‘(of a part of the body) not diseased’ 2) ‘indicative of, conducive to, or promoting good health’. Looking at #2 for both instances, good health is the overarching implication that unites health and healthy. Working out like crazy does not necessarily exempt one from various ravages of mortal existence just as ‘said’ impure habits does not condemn one to those same ravages. Healthy is the state where one is able to function (independently, more or less) as they age.
Being healthy is a matter of lifestyle and, to some degree, genetics . . . . Luck-o-th’-draw??? Perhaps . . . studies say that longevity hinges upon the aforementioned parameters. A person being healthy goes beyond the studied parameters of lifestyle and genetics. There are those outliers that smoke. On average, smokers’ life expectancy is 10 years less than non-smokers. The long-lived smokers are the exception and the researchers said that their findings suggest that they may be a “biologically distinct group” that is endowed with genetic variants that allow them to respond differently to exposure. There are also marathoners that smoke regularly. This is not a statement to promote smoking. It is rather an observation of the spectrum of what constitutes a healthy individual.
Drinking is a bit more deleterious to the body as the liver is an important organ. Nonetheless, the question of what comprises a ‘safe’ level of alcohol consumption begs to be answered. Tea-totaling, one to two drinks a week, a ‘drink’ a day . . . . . . in excess of a ‘drink a day’??? Some studies have drawn positive correlation between ‘moderate alcohol consumption and longevity. Of course, there is a level of ‘too much’. Yet, it is personal interests, goals, influences and such that lend to what may be considered ‘too much’ alcohol consumption.
Exercise is a point for discussion. Yes, exercise and movement are definitely important to being healthy. There is however that sweet spot towards which one should strive. Too much (intense) exercise can wear the body down, i.e.; early(?) death, muscolo—skeletal challenges. Too little exercise can lead to obesity, COPD, joint challenges, diabetes, etc. The bottom line is that one has to be comfortable with what makes them feel good. Some people love (to) exercise, some abhor it, some do it out of necessity . . . it has to work for the individual. They, themselves, must be content with the results of their efforts.
What is healthy? It depends on the individual. Healthy for a competitive athlete is not the same as that for a 30 year old office worker who was inactive as a youngster. One must not compare themselves with others. They must honestly assess where they are at and accordingly proceed from that point.
Ab-Sutra Wellness and Fitness 