The world is not only battling Covid-19 pandemic but also the increasing burden of chronic diseases and stress. Yes, you have heard it right! You will be shocked to know that lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, back, neck, joint, and muscle pain, obesity, anxiety, and other problems are commonly seen in people nowadays. Moreover, it is becoming a matter of concern as many people are also further encountering serious complications due to lifestyle diseases and stress. Thus, it is imperative to stick to a healthy lifestyle and follow the fool-proof tricks that are mentioned in this article. It’s time to take charge of your health.
Coronavirus cases continue to escalate in India. Many people are working from home since a long time now. Following a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, lack of sleep and mobility, and stress have led to a surge in the cases of lifestyle diseases. There has been a steep rise in the incidences of obesity, diabetes, heart issues, hypertension, back, neck, and joint pain, kidney problems, and anxiety in people. Many have grave issues such as stress, depression, paranoia, irritability, frustration, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) because of the Covid-19 outbreak. Many people even had episodes of depression and have fallen prey to vices such as smoking and drinking. All this has further taken a toll on their physical and mental well-being. Not only this, binge eating, not taking medications on time, and neglecting the treatment has given a tough time to many people. Even existing patients with lifestyle diseases have suffered a lot during these unprecedented times.
Here are some essential tricks to manage lifestyle diseases and stress during the pandemic:
• You will have to maintain a correct posture while sitting and avoid sitting for a long time. It is a no-brainer that poor posture can lead to back and neck pain. Take breaks from sitting at regular intervals and stretch from time to time. Cut down on your usage of electronic gadgets to avoid neck and hand pain. Do not lift heavy objects if you have lower back pain. Do not sleep in the wrong position and use a good pillow and mattress that supports the neck and the back.
• Exercise daily at home to control abnormal blood sugar levels, hypertension, obesity, stress, and joint pain. There is a wide range of activities that can keep you healthy and fit: aerobics, walking, dance, weight training, Pilates, Parkour, and Zumba. Speak to your fitness trainer before starting any fitness regimen. Try to take stairs instead of the elevator. Don’t forget to walk after every meal to avoid acidity and heartburn. Daily exposure to the sun for 15 minutes can help you get that much-needed vitamin D to increase bone mineral density.
• Follow a well-balanced diet that consists of all the essential nutrients. Avoid spicy, oily, junk, and processed foods. Drink a lot of water and reduce your portion size. Avoid overeating. Eat food low in calories and maintain an optimum weight.
• To rejuvenate and calm down, do yoga and meditation as and when you get time. Spend some quality time with your family and friends by staying in touch with them through video calls. Do things that you like such as dancing, photography, cooking, playing indoor games with family members, and reading. This can surely perk you up.
• Avoid believing in any forwards on social media. Do not pay any heed to rumours. Do not believe in any fake information as it can stress you out.
The writer is General Physician, Apollo Spectra Nehru Enclave, New Delhi.
