There are health conditions you do not have much control over due to genetics. However, other health conditions are environmentally influenced, and you can prevent or reverse your risk. Here are a few health conditions you can prevent or decrease your risk of developing.

Obesity

Exercise, eat well and see a doctor.  If you are overweight, it is more than just appearance. The main concern is your health.  Obesity is a huge catalyst in many different health conditions: diabetes, heart attack, depression, sluggishness, poor self esteem and the list goes on.

If it is too hard to eat well and exercise on your own,  seeing a doctor may be your best avenue. Your doctor may be able to put you on a path to saving your life.

Smoking

This is a bad habit that once started is hard to break.  Smoking has no positive effects and doubles your chances of stroke.

If you do not have the will power to quit for yourself, think about the health and wellbeing of those around you. Smoking is one habit that negatively impacts the health of others.

Second-hand smoke is just as dangerous as firsthand. Even if you smoke outside, the smoke that is detected from your clothes by others is still damaging.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure increases risk of heart attack and stroke.  Did you know, once a person has a stroke he or she has a one in six chance to have another one within two years?  Watching diet and stress levels can decreasethe risk of high blood pressure.  Also, try incorporating a regular exercise routine into your life. If you are worried that you cannot control your blood pressure, see a doctor.

High cholesterol

Heart disease and stroke are the leading health conditions caused by high cholesterol. Eating a proper diet is important when controlling cholesterol levels. Not watching what you eat could cost you your life.

If you are unable to lower cholesterol levels on your own, see a doctor for help. High cholesterol can cause plaque to build up on the blood vessels. This build up can break “free” and cause a stroke.

Brittle bones

Even though brittle bone disease is mostly associated with the elderly and women, it can affect anyone regardless of sex or age.

People of all ages need take steps to keep their bones strong. If you do not, there is a great probability of developing osteoporosis, which will increase the fragility of bones,  making them easier to break as you age. Incorporating enough protein and dairy in your diet will help prevent bone loss, protect muscles and other body tissues. Exercise and strength training will increase the strength of bones.

These are just a few examples of the serious ailments in which individuals may have throughout their lives. Beginning by changing one little thing could make a world of difference.

These are just a few examples of the serious ailments in which individuals may have throughout their lives.  Beginning by changing one little thing could make a world of difference.