The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle

In a student’s daily routine, health may not always be top priority. Making sure to eat three meals a day and getting enough exercise can make a significant difference in a student’s lifestyle. The average student should take into account the amount and quality of food within each meal. Not choosing healthy foods to eat can lead to one getting overweight which will spiral into major health problems. While growing, bodies need the right amount of fruits and vegetables. A growing teen should eat nutritiously as soon as possible to guarantee a healthy development. Nutrition in America is often overlooked in comparison to other countries; this spreads to the poor eating habits that many Americans practice. 

On average, “a person should consume around two cups and fruits and vegetables per day.” Reports from the CDC show, “In the United States, 19% of young people aged 2 to 19 years and 40% of adults have obesity, which can put them at risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.” The CDC found that most Americans prefer to go out to eat, rather than staying home and making a home cooked meal. Fast food restaurants in America offer unhealthy meals for low prices. Almost always, a healthy option will cost more money than an unhealthy 10 piece chicken nugget meal. In addition to eating right, students should dedicate at least thirty minutes a day to physical activity. Sierra Vista High School Lifetime Sports coach Ms. Poindexter says, “The older you get the more important it is to exercise at least 30 miuties a day. If I don’t move consistently for at least 30 minutes a day my body feels the negative difference.” Just thirty minutes a day can affect how the brain and digestive system work. This can include walking outside, going to the gym, playing a sport, or even

going to the park with friends and throwing a ball around. Small changes in a student’s routine can make the biggest difference for one’s body.