How to Keep Yourself and Your Family Healthy

Health means a lot of things to everyone, and even qualified experts often hold opposing opinions. Still, a number of wellness tips are well-supported by science, including avoiding charred meats and added sugars, getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, managing stress, and maintaining positive social connections. These and other healthy activities help people feel better physically, emotionally, financially, and socially—and boost overall quality of life.

A strong and responsive public health system is critical to promoting and protecting the nation’s health. It helps prevent disease and epidemics, responds to health risks and events, and identifies and addresses health disparities.

To keep America healthy, the government must invest in public health and strengthen its workforce, infrastructure, and data systems. It should also increase access to high-quality care and reduce the burden of health-related costs.

Policymakers must address the underlying causes of many health issues, including those related to poverty, education, housing, transportation, employment, and environmental conditions. By investing in the communities that need it most, they can improve health, reduce racial disparities, and promote economic mobility.

The health of a population is closely linked to its economic security and quality of life. To improve Americans’ lives, federal and state governments must ensure that families can earn enough to cover basic needs and afford health insurance. They should also provide supplemental support and create policies that help families save money and build wealth over time.

High out-of-pocket health care costs, especially those related to drug prices, are a serious barrier to accessing treatment. These costs are disproportionately borne by low-income families, who have the most difficulty meeting other expenses. This is unacceptable, and it’s an area where policymakers must act immediately to alleviate the burden.

A strong, resilient immune system is the foundation of good health. The best way to support it is by practicing a healthy lifestyle and avoiding unnecessary stressors.

Regular exercise can help maintain healthy weight, lower risk for cardiovascular disease, and manage stress and depression. It’s important to find an activity you enjoy, so that it becomes a sustainable habit. When obstacles arise, such as weather or scheduling conflicts, problem-solve by planning ahead to overcome them. For example, on days when it’s too cold or rainy to go outside for a walk, take the stairs instead of the elevator or find an indoor location like a mall.