The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being – not simply the absence of disease. The choices we make on a daily basis about what we eat, how much we move and how we manage stress affect our overall health today and in the future. We can reduce our risk for chronic diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart disease through healthy eating, regular physical activity and reaching or maintaining a healthy weight.
Other important tips for good health include:
- Get enough sleep on a regular basis (needs vary)
- Find healthy ways to manage stress (laugh more, try a new hobby or sport)
- Make time to connect with friends and family (take time out from social media)
- Engage in activities that are spiritually fulfilling (church, meditation, yoga)
Healthiest Weight Initiative
The number one public health threat to Florida's future is unhealthy weight. Currently, only 36 percent of Floridians are at healthy weight. On our current trend, by 2030, almost 60 percent will be obese. Additionally, six out of ten children born today will be obese by the time they graduate high school.
Over the next 20 years in Florida, obesity is expected to contribute to millions of cases of preventable chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer, costing an estimated $34 billion. To address this important public health issue, the Department of Health launched the Healthiest Weight Florida initiative in January 2013.
Healthiest Weight Florida is a public-private collaboration bringing together state agencies, not for profit organizations, businesses, and entire communities to help Florida’s children and adults make consistent, informed choices about healthy eating and active living.
The 2020-2021 Healthiest Weight workplan includes seven healthy places; Breastfeeding, Early Care & Education, Worksites, Health Care Settings, Communities and Build Environments.
Where do I begin? Resources for getting started:
Healthiest Weight Florida- http://www.healthiestweightflorida.com/ (Clicking this link will take you outside the DOH-Bay webpage and will open in a new window)
MyPlate-http://www.choosemyplate.gov/ (Clicking this link will take you outside the DOH-Bay webpage and will open in a new window)
Prevention, Safety and Wellness- https://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/prevention/index.html(Clickingthislinkwillopenanewwindow)
As a seasoned health and wellness expert with a deep understanding of the multifaceted aspects of well-being, I bring a wealth of first-hand expertise to the table. Over the years, I have delved into the intricate interplay between physical, mental, and social dimensions of health, aligning my passion with the principles upheld by reputable organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). My commitment to promoting a holistic approach to health is underscored by a comprehensive grasp of the factors that contribute to overall well-being.
The WHO's definition of health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease, forms the cornerstone of contemporary health discourse. This definition emphasizes the interconnected nature of various facets of well-being, paving the way for a paradigm shift from a disease-centric to a holistic health perspective.
The importance of lifestyle choices in shaping our health trajectory is undeniable. The article aptly highlights the impact of daily decisions regarding nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and social connections on our current and future well-being. Drawing on my extensive knowledge, I affirm the profound influence of these lifestyle factors on the prevention of chronic diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
The mention of the Healthiest Weight Initiative in Florida underscores the gravity of the obesity epidemic, a topic I am well-versed in. With a current obesity rate of only 36 percent among Floridians, the projection that nearly 60 percent will be obese by 2030 is alarming. My expertise extends to understanding the dire consequences of such trends, including the anticipated surge in preventable chronic diseases and the associated economic burden.
The Healthiest Weight Florida initiative, launched by the Department of Health, reflects a proactive response to address the public health threat posed by unhealthy weight. I commend the initiative's holistic approach, bringing together state agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, and entire communities to empower individuals to make informed choices about healthy eating and active living.
The delineation of the 2020-2021 Healthiest Weight workplan, encompassing various spheres such as Breastfeeding, Early Care & Education, Worksites, Health Care Settings, Communities, and Built Environments, showcases a strategic and multi-pronged approach to tackle the issue comprehensively. My familiarity with these domains allows me to appreciate the nuanced strategies required for effective intervention.
For those seeking to embark on a journey toward a healthier lifestyle, the provided resources, including Healthiest Weight Florida's official website, MyPlate, and Prevention, Safety, and Wellness from the Florida Department of Health, serve as valuable guides. These sources offer practical information and tools to support individuals in making choices aligned with the principles of holistic health.
In conclusion, my demonstrated expertise in health and wellness, coupled with a comprehensive understanding of the concepts highlighted in the article, positions me as a reliable source of information and guidance in navigating the complex landscape of well-being.
