2 min read

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We all wish to live a healthy life. And although it seems pretty simple, it may be a tall order for some African Diaspora. Systemic challenges – both social and economic –  are obstacles to the overall health of melanated people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), African Americans are more susceptible to having high blood pressure, diabetes, and overall poor health than other Americans. They are also more likely to die from heart disease, cancer, or stroke.

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Although these statistics are worrying, all descendants of Africa can take precautions by adhering to healthy living ways. Here are five expert-recommended tips for living a healthier life:

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1 - Eat a healthy diet

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Eating a healthy and balanced diet is the crux of living a healthy life. It is advisable to eat various foods to equip your body with all the nutrients it needs for optimal functioning.  Eat a combination of more fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, carbohydrates, and low-fat foods. Also, avoid saturated fat, processed fats, and reduce salt and sugar intake. Observing a healthy diet significantly reduces your risk of malnutrition and contracting diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

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If you want to eat healthily, look no further than your roots – African heritage foods are incredibly healthy and recommended by dieticians and nutritionists. Foods of African heritage mainly include plenty of fruits, nuts, whole grains, leafy greens, beans, and fewer animal products and sugar.

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2 - Drink more water

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Experts suggest that adults take at least 8-10 cups of water every day. Sixty per cent of our body is water, which is an essential requirement for the body to function well. We need to take plenty of water and other fluids to replenish the water lost in sweat and other body processes. It is also recommended to start your day by taking a glass of water first thing in the morning. Hydrating on an empty stomach boosts digestion and increases body energy incredibly. Research also shows that water helps lose excess body weight.

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3 - Exercise regularly

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Regular exercise helps us gain a higher bone density, lose excess weight, relieve stress, and reduces the risk of non-communicable diseases. Climb the stairs rather than taking a lift, walk to work whenever possible. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of physical exercise a week.

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4 - Get enough sleep

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Adults need 7-9 hours of shut-eye sleep every night to live healthily. Get rid of distractors that make you sleep late, like avoiding surfing the internet late in the night. In addition to the quantity of sleep, quality is also vital. You should have comfortable beddings and have a regular sleep schedule to which you adhere religiously.

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5 - Purge negativity from your life

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Emotional health is part of a healthy life. To achieve positive mental health, you need to eliminate extremely critical people who feed you with negativity. Also, get rid of negative thoughts from your mind and substitute them with positive ones. Positive thoughts bring you peace, thus keeping stress and depression away.

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Final thought

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Observing the tips for living a healthier life is vital for continental and historical African Diaspora. We can save our community from killer diseases such as diabetes and heart disease and lead a fulfilling life.

WeAfric fosters discussions within the African Diaspora community that promote our well-being and boost productivity towards achieving black excellence.

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