Dr. Thomas Taylor’s Tips for Getting in Shape

In San Antonio, many people do not take proper care of their bodies. Poor diet and lack of exercise account for many different diseases and conditions, including obesity. When a person wants to improve their quality of life and ward off chronic disease, there are concrete steps that they can take toward good health. Bariatric surgeons like Dr. Thomas Taylor are able to help patients who need to lose a significant amount of weight achieve a healthier body and a longer lifespan, but surgery is typically a last resort. Doctors and Experts alike recommend lifestyle changes first and foremost.

The steps to a healthy life are simple, but their effect is profound. When people take care of their bodies, they will find that they live happier, more fulfilling lives. Here are the top 4 steps to better health for residents of San Antonio.

1. Diet

According to Dr. Thomas V. Taylor, The most important change that San Antonio residents can make to promote good health and longevity is to consume a healthy diet. The diet should be based on whole grains, lean meats, vegetables, fruits, and dairy or non-dairy substitutes like soymilk. When people eat poorly, they are more likely to become obese and to suffer from other chronic diseases.

Two diets which are recommended for better health are the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and the Mediterranean diet. Both of these diets call for a balanced approach to nutrition, with lean meats, fish, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Added sugars such as those in sweetened drinks should be avoided most of the time. The DASH diet also severely limits the amount of sodium consumed in the course of a day. Sodium can promote water retention and lead to increased blood pressure.

2. Exercise

Exercise is another key to good health. When people exercise regularly, their risk of death drops by up to 45 percent.

Adding regular exercise into your day can be easier than you think. It does not require going to the gym daily or significantly impinging on your lifestyle. Starting small is the best way to begin exercising. Even just 15 minutes of walking once a day can significantly impact your health. As you gain endurance, add more exercise, including such activities as jogging, swimming, bicycling, gym exercises, and strength training. Strength training is associated with better bone and joint health.

3. Control of Chronic Disease

Controlling chronic diseases is a must for achieving better health. Many people neglect visiting their doctors for annual wellness checks, but this can significantly raise their chances of suffering from an uncontrolled chronic diseases like high blood pressure or diabetes. When uncontrolled, high blood pressure can lead to strokes and heart disease, claims Dr. Thomas Taylor. Diabetes can lead to heart disease, obesity, and kidney problems.

Chronic disease can impact a person’s life in many ways. Chronic diseases can also keep a person from exercising, though they should add exercise into their lives to increase their lifespans.

4. Mental Wellness

While caring for your physical health is important, it is equally crucial to look after your mental health. If you are feeling sad, angry, hopeless, or fearful, it is smart to talk with your primary care doctor or to find a qualified therapist. Suffering alone with mental illness has a severe impact on a person’s quality of life and can lead to earlier death. Taking care of your mental health will improve every area of your life. In today’s climate, there is far less stigma to receiving mental health treatment than there had been in years past.

5. Smoking and Alcohol Use

It is best that people stop smoking and consuming alcohol. Any amount of cigarette or e-cigarette use is dangerous, and alcohol can lead to a host of serious problems. Alcohol is also a source of empty calories which can lead to severe weight gain if a person does not drink in moderation. If you need help quitting smoking or alcohol use, talk to your primary care doctor for help. He or she may be able to put you on medication to help you quit smoking, and you may also benefit from talk therapy.

Promoting Longevity

Physicians like Dr. Thomas V. Taylor are concerned with helping all of their patients live longer, healthier lives. When patients pay attention to these five areas, they will be able to get a handle on their health, taking control of their own destinies. San Antonio residents should know that there is help available and should not be ashamed of asking for it. With these five lifestyle points in mind, everyone can reach for good health.