How — and why — to fit more fiber and fermented food into your meals
UTI in older women: Why postmenopausal women are susceptible to urinary tract infection, and what to do about it
Can a routine vaccine prevent dementia?
Some adults may need a measles booster shot. Who should get one and why?
Less butter, more plant oils, longer life?
Healthier planet, healthier people
Counting steps is good — is combining steps and heart rate better?
Appendix pain: Could it be appendicitis?
Can saw palmetto treat an enlarged prostate?
How does Ozempic work? Understanding GLP-1s for diabetes, weight loss, and beyond
Staying Healthy
Achieving and maintaining good health means adopting healthy lifestyle habits, from consuming nutritious foods and getting regular physical activity to prioritizing sleep and reducing stress.
Dietary patterns that are most closely linked to a longer, healthier life tend to focus on unprocessed or minimally processed foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts as well as fish and healthy fats.
Physical activity can mean going for long walks, riding your bike, gardening, playing pickleball, or regularly participating in any activity you enjoy. Exercise lowers your risk for serious health problems, strengthens and tones your muscles, helps preserve independence, and boosts your mood.
Restorative sleep is similarly vital to your health and wellbeing, as is managing stress. Regular checkups, screening tests, and other preventive health measures are also important.
Over time, these efforts will pay dividends. You’ll be rewarded with more energy, improved mobility, less pain, a brighter outlook, and enhanced physical and mental health.
Related Articles
Heart Health
New studies suggest a calcium-rich diet is safe for the heart
Harvard Health Blog
Don't tolerate food intolerance
Harvard Health Blog
The "thinking" benefits of doodling
Harvard Health Blog
How much artificial trans fat is still in our food?
Harvard Health Blog
Spice up your holidays with brain-healthy seasonings
Harvard Health Blog
Colon cancer screening: Is there an easier, effective way?
Harvard Health Blog
Why you should keep tabs on your drinking
Staying Healthy
Plank Pass
Staying Healthy
Strength to power
Staying Healthy
Kettlebell
Heart Health
Pill-free ways to lower high blood pressure
Pain
How to sleep well despite chronic pain
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!
Sign Up
