In the June 2009 edition of the American Journal of Medicine, a study reports that many Americans don't care about their health. Ok- it says it a little differently. It states, "Following a healthy lifestyle is on the decline in the United States."In an 18 year span, among individuals age 40-74:
- The percentage of obese individuals went from 28 to 36%
- People who engaged in physical activity at least 12x per month went from 53-43%
- Smoking rates remained the same
- People who eat 5+ fruits and veggies per day went from 42-26%
The authors estimate that medical costs due to physical inactivity were approximately $76 billion in the year 2000. That's $76 billion in potential savings! That's enough to buy every man, woman and child in America
- at least 3 pairs of sneakers each year.... or
- a 1 year gym membership... or
- 3 months worth of organic fruits and vegetables
If you ask most people what really matters in their lives, they're likely to list the following: God, family, friends, health.
Do you really prioritize your health? Or is it just lip service? Many people are willing to work hard for other priorities (getting good grades, good job, promotion at work). I'm convinced that we are a nation of hard-working, powerfully motivated individuals. But what's going on with our health?
We already have the cure for so many debilitating diseases! Don't wait for 'science' to come up with a magic drug, a better vitamin or less invasive procedure to fix your life. The cure, the absolute fool-proof, indisputable, undeniable cure for many of our diseases rests in a $40 pair of shoes and the outdoors. No matter where you are in your life... no matter where the economy has positioned you and your family, don't let your health slide.
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