Doctors offer advice on health

The Deseret Morning News did an informal survey of doctors of various specialties — from pediatrics (the very young) to geriatrics (the very wise). We asked all of them the same question: What is the most important thing(s) a person can do to maintain good health?

Nestled amid the medical advice were suggestions that take on a surprisingly human dimension. Many of the physicians, whom we interviewed by e-mail or phone, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with family and friends.

They also talked about the "h" word — hobbies. Lead a balanced life, they advised, and take up interests outside your profession.

Not surprisingly, many of them mentioned the importance of eating wisely and exercising. (You may want to consult your physician before starting an exercise program.)

Women's health

• Live a healthy lifestyle physically. Eat a healthy variety of foods in appropriate amounts. Maintain an appropriate weight for height, avoiding being either over or under weight. Stay active. Get regular exercise. This should be aerobic, minimum of three times a week for half an hour, ideally five times a week for an hour. Get enough rest. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. Avoid using illicit drugs. Avoid drinking alcohol excessively.

• Keep emotionally healthy. Maintain healthy relationships. Have a balanced life, with interests outside of your profession. Pay attention to stress and anxiety cues, and act on them by decreasing your stressors. Seek help from a professional counselor when appropriate. Look for the positives in your life and the world around you. Enjoy your life.

• Pay attention to what your body is telling you. Get regular preventive health care as recommended for your age and gender (yes, this includes a colonoscopy if over 50 and earlier if you have risk factors for cancer) and appropriate vaccinations. If you are having significant health symptoms, don't ignore them. Get the health care you need when you need it.

• If you have medical problems, educate yourself about your illness, and do your part to keep as healthy as possible. Taking medicine isn't the entire answer. Work together with your medical provider (doctor, nurse practitioner, physician's assistant, etc.). They are there as part of your team. Ask questions. Be involved in the decision-making of your health care. Be sure you have given all the health information about you that your medical provider will need to help you. Take prescribed medicines as directed.