There are some factors that affect health outcomes that you have no control over. Where and when you were born and your genetic makeup are some of the most obvious examples. However, the picture isn't all negative. There are lots of things you can do and choices that you can make to help you avoid or delay the onset of some very common diseases. Keep reading to understand how to reduce your chances of some of these common conditions that are greatly impacted by your lifestyle. 

Understand Healthy Choices

Lifestyle choices are things like your diet and physical activity levels. They also include habits and addictions that can negatively impact your health. Making sound choices can greatly impact how you feel every day and whether or not you develop serious health conditions. 

There appears to be a direct connection between gut health, inflammation, and most of the health conditions that can be prevented or delayed. Exploit that connection by ensuring you are eating a proper diet and getting the nutrients your body needs. 

For conditions like osteoporosis and muscle loss, make sure you are getting sufficient protein, calcium, vitamin D and other vitamins and minerals for strong tissue development. Know when to take BCAA, protein, and dietary supplements to give your energy levels and overall health a boost. 

Increase your physical activity to make sure you are meeting the American Heart Association guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week. Be sure to include weight-bearing or strength training activities in the mix to give muscle and bone condition a boost.

Make sure you are getting adequate sleep to maximize your health. Aim to get at least eight hours every night. The effects of sleep deprivation can appear in as few as four days of insufficient sleep, so try to be consistent. 

You will want to limit your vices, too. Try to avoid smoking and being around second-hand smoke whenever possible. If you are a smoker now, learn about options that may help you cut back or quit. Try to avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol on a regular basis. Current recommendations are no more than two drinks per day for a healthy adult. 

Chronic Inflammation 

This is the elephant in the middle of the room, and it needs to be addressed. Chronic Inflammation causes your body to be in a heightened state of alert and repair, it may compromise your immune system making you more susceptible to common illnesses. It has also been linked to systemic pain and discomfort, reduced mobility, and increased incidence of many other health conditions, including the others, covered next. 

Heart Disease 

Heart or cardiovascular disease is an umbrella term for several conditions that affect the heart and circulatory system. These include hypertension, diseased or blocked arteries, strokes, and heart attacks. While some of these may be inherited or present at birth, most are preventable by making healthy lifestyle choices. 

Diabetes

Not all cases of diabetes are avoidable, but the rates of the preventable type 2 variant are nearing epidemic proportions. It is characterized by a lack or inability to utilize insulin in the body. This results in elevated levels of glucose in the blood. uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to complications and damage to nearly every organ. 

Cancer

While almost half of adults can expect to experience some form of cancer throughout their lifetime, only a small percentage of cancers are hereditary. That means the rest can be prevented or delayed by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Some types that may be preventable are colorectal, lung, breast, cervical, prostate, testicular, oral, and skin cancers. 

Osteoporosis

The bone loss that leads to a diagnosis of osteoporosis can be minimized through a balanced diet and sufficient physical activity. Weight-bearing exercises that help encourage muscle development are especially helpful. 

Take Charge of Your Health

There is no reason to accept these preventable diseases as inevitable because of your family history or as a natural part of aging. Make informed choices and talk to your healthcare provider about ways to maintain your health and wellness over time.