What constitutes being “healthy” carries a different meaning for everyone. For some, it’s a 3 mile run, strolling the farmers market or getting enough sleep. For others, it’s managing stress, spending time with friends and learning new things. Recently, an insurance company completed a national study with the help of Harris Interactive, polling Americans 25 to 64 years old. It showed the different paths that people take to achieve their own version of healthy. Here’s a snapshot of the results:
Americans Say Healthy Is:
- Being active
- Eating right
- Right weight for my body type
- Managing stress
- Work/life balance
- Being in a happy, committed relationship
Americans choose having strong relationships with family and friends as equally important as getting recommended health checkups.
25 hours in a day?
And with an extra hour in the day they would choose to exercise over getting sleep.
Everything counts in small amounts!
Compared to five years ago, those living healthier today are reportedly: Eating more salads and fewer french fries, drinking less alcohol, and working out harder.
But wait a minute!
Even though the majority say they are living as healthy or healthier than they were over five years ago, 67% still want to lose weight. In fact, the median amount of weight to be lost is 25 pounds, according to respondents.
So, what do YOU think is “healthy”?
Please use the information at the top of page to let us know what areas are or are not important to you and tell us in the comments! Have a happy and healthy week! And feel free to contact our registered dietitian with any questions.
By Rita Larsen, RD; Elite Sports Clubs Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Counselor