by Joyce Dunaway @DunawayJoyce

Almost everyone has some health issues. Some are the results of hereditary and some because of poor maintenance of our bodies. Of course, we all know the importance of exercise and healthy eating habits. Also, other lifestyle choices, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, affect our health.

God admonishes us to take care of our bodies and present them to God as a living sacrifice. (Romans 12:1)

Following are ways a healthy lifestyle could help you achieve your dreams:

BRAIN HEALTH

• Exercise improves blood flow and memory. It stimulates chemical changes in the brain that enhance learning, mood, and thinking.
• Food rich in antioxidants can help fend off the harmful effects of oxidation in your brain.
• Hypertension, diabetes, obesity, depression, head trauma, higher cholesterol, and smoking all increase the risk of dementia.
• Sleep energizes you, improves your mood and your immune system, and may reduce buildup in the brain of an abnormal protein which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Mental exercises may improve your brain’s functioning and promote new brain cell growth, decreasing your likelihood of developing dementia.
• Leading an active social life can protect you against memory loss. Spending time with others, engaging in stimulating conversation, and staying in touch with family and friends are good for your brain health.

PHYSICAL STRENGTH AND ENDURANCE

• Maintaining and improving your muscular strength—through strength training—helps maintain a healthy body weight, improves bone density, improves your metabolism, and helps prevent osteoporosis.
• Physical strength can also result from the practice of correctly holding poses with dance, yoga, or Pilates.
• Muscles need quality fuel to be their best. Protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and other nutrients help muscles rebuild and strengthen.
• The mind has a role in building physical strength. The building blocks of physical strength, diet, and exercise are powerless against an unmotivated mind.