Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

I am too busy to fix special diet foods and work out in a gym. What are some easy and inexpensive ways to eat right and get enough exercise?

Keep it simple. Healthy foods do not have to be complicated or difficult to prepare. For example, fresh fruits and vegetables, bought in season, require almost no preparation. They can be carried for a quick snack. Fish and chicken can be broiled quickly. The most effective way to increase exercise is to make it part of your daily life. Walk to the store or park the car on the far side of the parking lot; take the stairs instead of the elevator; and find something active you enjoy doing.

What are some effective ways to reduce stress?

Identify causes of stress that you can control, and work on eliminating them from your life. Look for ways that you add to your own stress, such as procrastinating and managing your time poorly. Try muscle relaxation techniques and meditation, learn assertiveness skills to improve communication, keep physically active, and get enough sleep.

Why are overweight and obesity now considered to be public health risks?

Both overweight and obesity contribute to conditions that pose serious health risks. For example, hypertension (high blood pressure) in many people is directly linked to weight. Hypertension, in turn, increases the chances for heart disease and stroke. People who eat many high-fat foods may have high cholesterol, a fatty substance that can clog the arteries and cause heart disease. The increased number of cases of diabetes mellitus, a serious chronic disease, is believed to be linked to the growing number of people who are overweight. Some researchers believe that excess weight may also contribute to breast and other forms of cancer. Recent reports cite excess weight as a leading risk factor for fatal illnesses, second only to tobacco.

What is burnout, and how can it be avoided?

Burnout is a form of physical and mental exhaustion. It is caused by stressors that occur over a period of time, usually in the workplace. These stressors include long work hours, lack of adequate rest, frustrations that do not get resolved, lack of emotional support, involvement with the problems of patients, and lack of time for good health habits and recreation. Workers suffering from burnout lose interest in their work, feel unappreciated, and may experience physical symptoms and absences from work. Burnout can be avoided by following good health habits, especially during stressful times; practicing techniques to relieve stress; and learning to be assertive to resolve workplace issues.

I never seem to have enough time to finish everything I have to do. How can I get more done in the time I have available?

Keep a written, prioritized daily to-do list. Tackle the most important things first so that if you run out of time, you have completed the “must-do’s.” Maintain a calendar of activities and due dates so you can plan ahead. Cluster activities to save time, such as running all household errands at the same time. Keep lists to help you stay organized, such as things you need to buy and homework assignments you need to do. Involve family members in planning and organizing their time so you are not caught unprepared for their activities or needs.