Prevention

Prevention is a crucial component of healthy living. When is the best time to correct a problem? Before it ever happens! Think of the billions of dollars spent on health care that could have been avoided if people had only taken preventative measures. It's hard to put a price tag on prevention. To quote Michael Scott from The Office "You just can't put a price tag on a $50 gas card."

Taking preventative measures and being proactive is one way to avoid being a victim who just lets life happen to them. You've all heard the phrase "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure". I understand that people who exercise everyday can still drop over dead from a heart attack and people who watch what they eat can still get cancer, but anytime you can stack the odds in your favor you will be better off. You will also have a higher quality of life when you actively take measures to promote better health.

I think the dental industry is a good example of prevention. It would be nice if doctors could remind you to do the equivalent or brushing and flossing for your health, but they usually end up treating you once you are past that point and need immediate treatment for some illness or disease. I don't have a medical license but I can take on the important role of prevention coordinator. In fact, I think I'll make myself the Founder, President, and CEO of the Your Fitness Quest Prevention Society.

Little things like wearing seat belts, flossing, washing your hands, reading food labels, wearing safety eye wear when operating machinery, and having health screenings may not seem like a big deal, but if you develop these and other habits it can make a big difference over time.

Nobody wakes up one morning overweight and out of shape. Changes are gradual and take time. If you are not doing anything to promote better health then you are probably slowly slipping backwards. Today is a great day to make a difference in your health by practicing prevention.