Is It Expensive To Be Healthy?

By Dr. Tiffany T. Butler | January 16, 2023 | Read Time: 5 minutes

“Good health is a crown worn by the healthy that only the ill can see.”

Everything has a price, including health. The question is – what price are you willing to pay – the cost of poor health or the cost of good health? In my previous blog, Your Poor Health is Costing You Big Time, I discussed how poor health is a result of many factors, including but not limited to 1)the access to resources (including quality food and healthcare services); 2) the inability to pay for healthcare (even when it is accessible), and 3) the lack of health education. Good health is essential to living a productive, joyful, and wonderful life. Without good health, life can be difficult to navigate.

We all have experienced health issues that we have overcome or learned to manage. When our health is compromised by an illness or injury/trauma, the body will do everything it can to get us back to normal health. Most of us are born with good health, while others are born with their health already compromised by a health condition, thereby making their ability to fight off illness more challenging.

Health is dynamic and can, therefore, be good, poor, or somewhere in between, dependent upon the circumstances. Lifestyle choices, genetics, and mindset are key factors that result in good health. Research shows that people who have good health also demonstrate the following habits:

• Exercise regularly
• Get adequate sleep
• Consume better quality foods
• Minimize intake of sugary, salty, and fatty foods
• Positive attitude
• Create healthy environments (at home and work)

Good health can be defined as an approved or desired health state. Many people want to improve their health, in fact, at least 50% of people list weight loss as their top new year’s resolution every year! Although we may have very little control over our genetics; we do have control over our choices and actions. We can consciously choose to make decisions that will ultimately lead to improved health. Even when we are experiencing a time of illness or injury/trauma, we can choose what actions to take that will lead to a better recovery and return to health.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BE HEALTHY?

#1: Spend More Money on Food

According to the Harvard School of Public Health, “The healthiest diets cost about $1.50 more per day than least healthy diets.” People who are healthy tend to purchase more fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables, over canned or packaged goods. In addition, they may choose to purchase organic versus organic.

#2: Gym and Fitness Membership

People who are healthy exercise regularly. Research shows that regular exercise not only benefits the physical body but also improves mental and emotional health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 24% of adults over the age of 18 participates in cardiovascular and strengthening training exercise. You don’t need a gym membership or attend fitness classes to be healthy. The goal is to move your body every day, for at least 30 minutes, continuously. You can achieve this by walking for 30 minutes, performing stretches at home, riding a bike, or swimming. These activities cost little to nothing to do.

#3 Relationships May Get Shaky

Believe it or not, when you decide that you want to become healthier other people may not like it. This may result in a breakdown in relationships, including friendships. Let’s face it. Most people are comfortable where they are in their lives, even if they know deep down, that they can improve. Being healthy is a personal journey. You must prioritize your health. You are responsible for the body you were given, no one else. Therefore, what happens to your body and in your life, is up to you.

Dr. Tiffany T. Butler (aka “The Pain Doctor”) is a chiropractor, author, and entrepreneur. She leads Harmonious Living Chiropractic: Fitness & Wellness Center, a pain management practice, in offering healthcare solutions that focus on patient-centered care. Her team consists of individuals who are passionate about improving patient outcomes by providing chiropractic care, in conjunction with therapeutic procedures. Their services have helped hundreds of people find pain relief and improved their quality of life. To learn more about Dr. Butler visit https://www.drtiffanybutler.com/dr-butler/ Connect with Dr. Butler on social media #drtiffanybutler