A healthy lifestyle is a way of living that lowers the risk of being seriously ill or dying early. Not all diseases are preventable, but a large proportion of deaths, particularly those from coronary heart disease and lung cancer, can be avoided.

Breakfast is called the most important meal of the day for good reason. It kick starts your metabolism and gives you the energy to get on with your day. Plan your meals for the entire week so you don’t have to think about what to eat during mad-rush mornings. Keep it quick, easy and hearty: a bowl of oatmeal, milk and sliced fruits; a fruit and yoghurt smoothie; or multigrain bread with avocado.

Tobacco use is the most important preventable illness and cause of death.Tobacco use causes or contributes to a large number of cancers in the U.S. In men, 90% of lung cancer deaths are attributable to smoking; 80% in women. Tobacco use causes cancers of the lung, mouth, lip, tongue, esophagus, kidney, and bladder. It also further increases the risk of bladder cancer in subjects occupationally exposed to certain organic chemicals found in the textile, leather, rubber, dye, paint, and other organic chemical industries, and further increases the risk of lung cancer among subjects exposed to asbestos.

There doesn’t seem to be much incentive to sweat it out in this consistently humid tropical climate, but exposure to natural sunlight is important for getting your essential dose of vitamin D. Unlike other vitamins typically found in food, vitamin D is produced in the skin by exposure to sunlight. Find at least 15 minutes a day to soak in the sun’s rays, as vitamin D is important for strong bones (it helps your body absorb calcium) and plays a vital role against depression and chronic diseases. So make sure to step out of your balcony or take a quick stroll to get your daily dose of sunlight.

The benefits of regular restful sleep cannot be overstated. Scoring a decent amount according to the National Sleep Foundation, anywhere from seven to nine hours can keep your brain sharp, your mood buoyant, and your energy level sky-high. What’s more, resting up will reduce your insulin levels, leading to slashed stress and, on a superficial note, radiant skin. 

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Exercise helps people lose weight and lower the risk of some diseases. Exercising regularly lowers a person’s risk of developing some diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Exercise also can help keep your body at a healthy weight. Exercise can help a person age well.

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Clearing your mind can help combat rumination and may lead to better sleep, more effective downtime after work, greater focus, and increased creativity. The practice may even be good for your relationships. So investing some time in mind-clearing strategies is well worth it.