Q: What are the benefits of a healthy lifestyle?
A: As the weather gets warmer and Iowans come out of hibernation after the snowy and icy winter, it’s a good time to think of ways to restart or begin a healthy lifestyle. According to the Iowa Department of Health, in 2006, 1.4 million Iowans were overweight. That number has increased by 36 percent over the last 10 years. Together, we can start lowering that number. The earlier, the better, and the greater chance there is to reduce one’s chances for heart disease and stroke. Experts tell us the key to increasing our odds for a long life is developing and maintaining healthy habits such as consistent exercise and proper eating habits. Exercise improves moods, helps manage weight, fights off chronic diseases, strengthens the heart and lungs, improves sleep quality, and provides enjoyment and entertainment. Something as doable as walking for 30 minutes a day can do the trick. Iowa’s clean air and wide-open landscape is an inviting place to start that kind of exercise routine. And eating healthy provides energy to stay active throughout the day. Don’t forget to check with your doctor to see what exercise regimen is best for you.
Q: How do you live a healthy lifestyle?
A: I didn’t recognize the benefits of exercise until about 10 years ago when I took up running. I enjoy being outdoors, and running’s low cost appealed to my frugal nature. I try to run about 3 miles a day most days of the week. I enjoy participating in the Race for the Cure in Des Moines each year, and I like to participate in runs near my home in Butler County when possible. I also recently participated in the Capital Challenge which is a 3-mile run around Anacostia Park in Washington, D.C. The proceeds help the D.C. Special Olympics. My team, which included me and four members of my staff, ran with other teams from the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the federal government as well as teams from the media. I've been able to participate in this event in the past, and I look forward to continuing the tradition. For me, it adds to the enjoyment of exercise to have events of this kind, but I would still try to maintain my running routine in order to live healthier, longer and with a better quality of life.
Exercise doesn’t always have to be outside of your daily routine. It can be as simple as taking the stairs rather than the elevator or escalator. Trying to eat healthy is easier said than done, but tricks like including lettuce and tomato on a hamburger can help get vegetables in. Little changes turn into bigger changes. Here are a few “Grassley” tips that might help you, too.
Get involved. Stay off the couch!
Run, walk, bike or hike.
Ask for help. Don’t go it alone.
Supplement a healthy diet with a little ice cream!
See your doctor for a physical.
Laugh.
Exercise your mind.
You need to drink water.