This week, Bobbi Conner chatted with Dr. Kevin Griggs about how small daily habits can help us prevent and manage chronic diseases. Dr. Griggs works in family medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina in Columbia.
Lifestyle medicine focuses on everyday choices that can lead to better health. Dr. Griggs mentioned six key habits that everyone should consider:
- Eat Whole Foods: Focus on whole or plant-forward foods.
- Stay Active: Aim for regular physical activity.
- Prioritize Sleep: Quality rest is essential.
- Manage Stress: Find effective ways to handle stress.
- Avoid Harmful Substances: Stay away from tobacco and limit alcohol.
- Build Social Connections: Strong relationships benefit our mental and physical health.
Research shows these habits can prevent up to 80% of chronic diseases, like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. For instance, healthy eating and regular movement can lower inflammation and improve metabolism, which is vital for long-term health.
If someone already has a chronic condition, these habits can still make a difference. For example, people with type 2 diabetes often see better blood sugar levels when they improve their diet and exercise more. While lifestyle changes can enhance medical care, they don’t replace it.
When it comes to exercise, Dr. Griggs recommends aiming for around 150 minutes a week—roughly 30 minutes a day, five days a week. This can be anything from walking to swimming. The key is to be consistent and choose activities you enjoy.
Social connections also play a crucial role in our overall well-being. Regular interactions can lower stress hormones, improve blood pressure, and boost resilience. Just chatting with a friend or joining local groups can have significant health benefits.
Lifestyle medicine works alongside traditional medical treatments, potentially reducing the need for medications over time, leading to a better quality of life.
In a recent survey by the American Heart Association, 70% of respondents believed that adopting healthier lifestyles would significantly improve their health outcomes. This reflects a growing awareness of the connection between habits and overall health.
From the radio studio at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, this is Bobbi Conner for South Carolina Public Radio.
