EATWELL SMALL BITES / WEEK 7
Managing Chronic Illness at Home
Six out of 10 adults in the US are living with a chronic illness. A chronic illness is a health condition that lasts a long time, usually more than three months, and requires ongoing medical attention. If you have a chronic illness it's important to eat well, stay active, and follow your treatment plan. Always remember that lifestyle changes don’t have to be major or difficult. As with health and wellness, managing chronic illness happens one step at a time.
Tips for managing chronic illness
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Chronic diseases can affect your body in many different ways, so it's important to schedule regular appointments to make sure your treatment plan is working. Talk with your doctor to decide how often you should be going in for checkups.
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Taking the right dose at the right time and in the right way is essential for managing your chronic conditions.
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Physical activity is one of the best things you can do to improve your health. If you have a chronic illness, regular activity can help you manage your condition and prevent complications. Remember, some activity is always better than no activity! Staying active can:
Immediately help you feel, function, and sleep better.
Help you stay independent and fit so you can complete daily tasks.
Help you control your weight.
Improve your mental health.
Decrease pain and improve function if you have arthritis.
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Eat foods that make you feel good, full, and strong. You can add fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your eating habits. You can also include a variety of protein foods to keep you feeling full, which include chicken, lean meats, and seafoods, eggs, legumes, and nuts. Also make sure your food choices are balanced and that ultra processed foods are not your main source of energy.
Conclusion
Managing a chronic illness can be challenging, but you do not have to do it alone. Work with your doctor to find self management techniques that work for you. In some cases, you can enroll in a self management education class to learn about chronic illness management alongside others. You do not have to wait to feel healthier — you can start making small changes today!