
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
Why conquering stress can help your heart

Staying Healthy
Ask the doctors: How much fruit can I eat and stay within the sugar guidelines?
Mind & Mood
Happiness may not extend life

Harvard Health Blog
Stress raising your blood pressure? Take a deep breath

Harvard Health Blog
Follow the poodle? Alternatives to prescription sleep medications

Child & Teen Health
Is football safe for kids?

Child & Teen Health
More than just a game: Yoga for school-age children

Staying Healthy
8 steps to mindful eating

Staying Healthy
What we do—and don't—know about exercise
Cholesterol
Walnuts can lower cholesterol

Sleep
Sleep and magnesium supplements

Staying Healthy
Get active with trackers
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!
Sign Up