According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, stress is associated with 80 percent of all physical illnesses in which people see a doctor, ranging from the common cold to heart disease.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, stress is associated with 80 percent of all physical illnesses in which people see a doctor, ranging from the common cold to heart disease.

Pregnant women commonly experience backaches due to the extra weight of carrying the baby. One way to minimize back problems is to start moving before you start to ache. To do this, alter your position every few minutes to prevent or relieve back strain.

The cost of health care expenses related to obesity has more than doubled over the last decade. In fact, according to the research of government sponsored programs, health care costs for obesity are expected to exceed $140 billion dollars a year.

Complications of one’s health are directly correlated to a person’s body mass index (BMI). BMI is the ratio of a person’s weight in kilos to the square of their height in meters. An individual is considered to be overweight if their BMI exceeds 25, and once their BMI reaches 30 they are classified as being obese.

If you take the pill, don’t smoke. Studies indicate that women who smoke and take birth control pills significantly increase their risk for a blood clot, heart attack, or stroke, especially if they’re over 35.

Cold and flu viruses are transmitted through the air as well as on objects. One way to shorten their life is to use a humidifier. Viruses prefer dry air which is why colds and flus are more common during the winter months.

It is believed that a positive attitude about life can contribute to longevity. Unfortunately, many people suffer from psychoscolosis– a hardening of the attitudes.

Don’t have unrealistic expectations for the holidays. It is impossible for food, decorations, and family get-togethers to be perfect. Since alcohol is a depressant, consume in moderation.

This year alone, 900,000 U.S. citizens will die of heart disease and strokes. That is 250,000 more Americans than those who died in WWI, WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War combined. Follow your doctor’s advice to reduce risk factors.

A 1 percent decline in your cholesterol level produces a 2 percent decline in your risk of having a heart attack. Such a two-for-one pay back can’t be duplicated in many other areas of health.