Superhealth part II - the case for a new classification

Not just diet and exercise

We all know that to feel better and “be healthy” we should diet and exercise. Nag nag nag …

For one, I don’t particularly like the word “diet” as it brings up an idea that you should follow a particular list of things to eat at certain times to achieve certain things. In the quest for your ultimate levels of health, whether that encompasses losing weight, gaining muscle or just staying mentally fit – there is no one “diet”, only nutrition.

Additionally, things like adequate sleep; time for complete rest or relaxation that actually refreshes you (whether reading a book or in a park with friends having fun); and good general hygiene play as important a role in your overall health and wellbeing, as what you do for exercise. Your best health ever is not going to be found simply by hitting the treadmill 5 times a week for 30 minutes, whilst killing yourself slowly with too little sleep and too much stress.

“Health care” vs healthcare

Here’s where I draw a distinction : there’s an incredible amount you can do to care for your own health on a daily basis to stay close to superhealth, and not just “not sick”. All it takes is a little care, a little effort repeated regularly. You don’t have to sit back and let ill health creep up on you, forcing you to suddenly become dependant on the healthcare system, often at the worst possible time. A little prevention does go a long way.

Ageing, society and health care

The fun part of your own daily health care, is that you are in control. One of the issues facing the healthcare system is the increasing impact of an ageing population. “Health” is one of the biggest expenses of government. Our tax dollars already work hard so that we can enable those who are have dropped below a certain line into illness, high risk of illness, or conditions that need medical attention. As we age, we are more likely to need the healthcare system in some way or another. 

Then consider the proportion of people aged over 65 is expected to almost double in the next 40 years. It’s an alarming thought that our already overworked health system will continue to be called upon more and more. Where will the funding come from? 

I for one love living in a country where basic healthcare is free and assured. But why not maintain your optimum quality of life? Take ownership of your own health, empower yourself with the knowledge to live well, rather than rely on an overburdened system!