“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” It’s good wisdom—the sentiment being that trying to prevent an illness is much more beneficial than trying to cure one after it develops.
However, the reality is that most people don’t worry about their health until there’s a problem.
At least, that’s how it’s been in the past. Trends are now moving in the direction of prioritizing prevention, and 2024 looks like it could be the year that Americans start focusing on how they’re going to maximize their well-being before a problem presents itself.
Of course, there are many practical aspects to this approach. Preventative measures—think regular checkups, nutritious food, vaccines, and immunizations—are far less expensive and time consuming than what it takes to treat a serious illness. But there’s also the social-emotional upside to prevention: Dealing with an illness is a huge burden even when money and time are not an issue. Most importantly, staying healthy means you enjoy a high quality of life, even as you get older.
What does it take to prioritize prevention?
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on what’s the right choice for you specifically, but much of it comes down to the basics you’ve been hearing throughout your life (even if you sometimes don’t always heed them):
- Eat nutrient-dense food, focused on a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. Choose lean protein sources and opt for whole grains instead of refined ones. Limit your intake of added sugars, salt, and highly processed foods.
- Get regular exercise, including at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity every week, along with resistance/strength training activities and stretches that will improve your flexibility and balance.
- Abstain from smoking and limit your consumption of alcohol to no more than one to two servings per day.
- Practice good handwashing with soap and warm water to avoid the spread of germs.
- Schedule regular checkups with your doctor, as well as recommended screening guidelines, so you can detect and address any health concerns early.
- Get all recommended vaccines to protect yourself from infectious diseases, including seasonal illnesses.
- Limit your number of sexual partners and use condoms and other protection against STIs.
While none of these best practices is foolproof—sometimes, any of us can get sick despite our best efforts—a cultural movement in this direction goes a long way toward a healthier, more prosperous society and reduces the strain on the system for those who do need treatment. Sounds like a health trend we can all embrace!
