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It's your responsibility
CHI A IRQ El
What do we mean by health being your response
bility? It's the attitude that puts you in charge of your
own health. More and more Native Americans are
taking charge of their exercise, eating, lifestyle and
healthhabits, and are happier for doing so. Research
shows that people who are firmly committed to tak
ing charge of their health have an increased sense of
well-being, feel confident in their appearance, and
overall, are more satisfied with their lives.
Learning how to take charge of yourself and your
health is easier than you may think. The first step
toward quality health care is self-care. Self-care
allows you to become a vital member of your health
care team. Self-care means knowing when to treat
an ailment at home and when to call your doctor. It
also means avoiding unhealthy lifestyle choices
such as smoking, alcohol and drug misuse, inactiv
ity, and poor eating habits. Finally, self-care means
becoming an active participant in your health care
choice,
Habits for health
Given the choice, most of us would prefer to pre
vent a disease before it happens rather than be
treated for an ailment after the fact. Fortunately
many of the life-threatening diseases affecting us
today such as cancer, high blood pressure, and
heart diseasecan often be prevented by making
healthy lifestyle choices. Stopping smoking, res
tricting alcohol and drugs, becoming more physi
cally fit, and eating foods that are low in fats and
cholesterol and high in complex carbohydrates are
all wise choices for healthier, happier, longer lives.
Health Care and Self-Care
Self-care means taking charge of your own health
and wellness. And when professional treatment is
required, it means asking questions, understanding
your options, and when necessary, getting a second
opinion. Participate in your health.
This special insert is offered to com- included was provided by the Warm
munity members as a guide to improved Springs Wellness Office and OSU
fitness and health. All information Extension Service.
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