Healthy Living on a Budget
While many people may be struggling financially in the current economy, preventing disease is not just smart medicine; it is also a wise way to curb health care costs. Christian Dodge, ND, shift supervisor and core clinical faculty member at Bastyr Center for Natural Health, stresses “keeping your immune system functioning well is one of the most important ways you can avoid a major health care crisis.”
Here then are Dr. Dodge’s tips for staying healthy during lean economic times.
Eat Healthy for Less
- Cook at home and skip the prepackaged foods. Make extra servings to freeze for leftovers.
- Grow some of your own produce, even if it’s only a few herbs in the windowsill.
- Make water your drink of choice.
- Incorporate movement into your daily routine: walk instead of drive or take the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Get out in nature! Take advantage of local parks, trails and open spaces.
- Get plenty of sleep and exercise.
- Nourish your relationships by spending time with loved ones.
- Balance work with time to play and have fun.
Get Regular Health Screenings
- Annual check-ups are one of the best ways to head off potential health issues. Your age and individual risk factors will determine your need for screenings, but most healthy adults should continue to have a regular screening visit once a year.
While these tips may help you resist illness and reduce health care costs, the cost savings of disease prevention is only part of the story. Foundational changes in diet and lifestyle also improve quality of life, vitality and self-esteem – something that money cannot buy.
Call Bastyr Center at 206.834-4100 to make an appointment with a naturopathic physician.
Originally published in the Fall/Winter 2009 issue of Healthy & Wise, the Bastyr Center newsletter.