Prevention of Chronic Disease

Most chronic diseases can be prevented, or the onset delayed, through a healthy lifestyle. Healthy lifestyles include the following:

Participate in regular physical activity - People of all ages, shapes, sizes, and abilities can benefit from being physically active. Moving more and sitting less have tremendous health benefits. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. Sixty minutes is even better. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans provides science-based guidance to help people ages 3 years and older improve their health through participation in regular physical activity. Before you start an exercise program, consult your health care provider.

Eat a nutritious and healthy diet - Choosing and enjoying nutrient-dense food and beverages is associated with a wide range of health benefits, across all life stages. Stay within your calorie limits and limit foods and beverages higher in added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium, and limit alcoholic beverages.
USDA - MyPlate
EatRight - Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Maintain a healthy weight - Excess weight and obesity contribute to many preventable health problems including chronic diseases. Maintaining a healthy weight contributes to good health now and as you age.

Healthy weight loss (about 1 to 2 pounds per week) is about an ongoing lifestyle that includes life-long changes in daily eating and exercise habits. Get started today for better health!

CDC – Healthy Weight, Nutrition, and Physical Activity
CDC – Overweight & Obesity

Body Mass Index (BMI) screens for weight categories that may lead to health problems. Calculate BMI for Adults, and Children and Teens online.

Don't start using tobacco products or quit if you already do - Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the United States. To learn more about the effects of tobacco use and the free quit tools and services available, please visit the Tobacco Free Florida website.