Regardless of your political persuasion, you’ve heard the phrase “Let’s make America healthy again.” Implying that America was once a healthy nation. It’s true that as far back as the 1960s, there were very low rates of obesity. Physical labor was more common and food was less processed and much healthier. From the 1980s to present obesity rates began to climb significantly with the rise of fast food, increased marketing of processed foods, 24 hour cable television, video games and the internet.
Making America Healthy again is not a republican thing or a democrat thing, it’s a human thing. All humans need and are entitled to good health, but sadly, 2/3 of the American population is either overweight or obese and by 2030 over 50% of the adult population will be classified as obese, which means not only will chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease increase, but so will the rising costs of healthcare and the mortality rates.
When you talk about making America healthy again, it’s more than improving our dietary habits. The American diet is often high in processed foods, which are loaded with sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These foods contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.
It’s a well known fact Americans don’t consume enough fruits and vegetables, which are essential for good health. These whole foods have fiber, which acts as a broom, cleaning the toxic waste out of your gut
Portion sizes in the US tend to be larger than in other countries, contributing to overeating and weight gain.
It’s also a well known fact, Americans don’t get in enough physical activity. Many Americans have jobs that involve sitting for long periods, and leisure time is often spent in front of screens rather than engaging in physical activity. Scientists are calling sitting the new smoking.
There are also Socioeconomic Factors: Poverty can limit access to healthy food, safe environments for exercise, and quality healthcare. Economic inequality also contributes to stress, which can negatively impact health.
But when it comes to making America Healthy Again, no one is talking about The importance of Mental Health:
Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it often receives less attention and funding. It affects how we think, feel, and act, and it plays a major role in our ability to cope with stress, build relationships, and make healthy choices. Good mental health is essential for a fulfilling life, allowing us to thrive in our personal and professional lives.
Prioritizing mental health is not a sign of weakness but rather a proactive step towards a healthier and happier life. Taking care of our mental health can involve various strategies, such as seeking professional help, practicing mindfulness, meditation, engaging in physical activity, and nurturing healthy relationships. By recognizing the importance of mental health and taking steps to maintain it, we can improve our overall quality of life and contribute to a more compassionate and supportive society.
So, to truly Make America Healthy Again, let’s not leave out the importance of mental health
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