Page 86 - UpperCrust e-Magazine Third Quarter 2024

HEALTH & WELLNESS | A DISEASE-FREE LIFESTYLE

A Healthy Independence

With Independence Day recently celebrated in our country, Dr Sakina Patrawala
of Zeal Wellness Nutrition brings to light another important freedom − from
disease and illness!

s we celebrate better able to contribute to their communities In contrast, a community plagued by
I ndia’ s and the economy. This was evident during water-borne diseases sees its social life suffer.
Ahar d-won India’s independence movement, where the People are less likely to interact and the sense
independence, it’s physical and mental well-being of leaders and of community weakens. Ensuring clean water
essential to reflect activists played a crucial role in sustaining and proper hydration helps prevent disease,
on another kind of their efforts. Mahatma Gandhi, for instance, leading to more connected communities,
freedom that remains emphasised the importance of a simple, essential for building a strong, unified nation.
crucial for our nation’s disciplined lifestyle and physical fitness, Do: Ensure that your drinking water comes
progress: the freedom understanding that good health was essential from a safe, reliable source and regularly
from disease. Similar for the demanding work of leading a non- check for any contamination. Use water
to how Mahatma Gandhi and his army violent resistance movement. purification methods before using.
fought to free India from British domination, Do: Incorporate physical activities like Don’t: Drink or use water from sources that
we too need to fight back against the growing walking, jogging, swimming, or yoga into are known to be contaminated or untreated,
epidemic of lifestyle diseases including cancer, your daily routine. as this can lead to waterborne diseases.
diabetes, hypertension, obesity, thyroid, etc. Don’t: Avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Limit Regular Health Checkups: These are
The prevalence of these illnesses is rising as prolonged sitting or inactivity. crucial for maintaining a healthy population,
a result of poor nutrition, imbalanced diets, Vaccination: After gaining independence, which in turn can better withstand crises such
and inactivity. Fighting these health battles India faced numerous challenges, including as natural disasters or pandemics. During
is as crucial today as it was to remove the widespread poverty, illiteracy and poor COVID-19, communities with better health
British from India. Let us draw inspiration health infrastructure. Recognising that good infrastructure and healthier populations
from our freedom fighters and commit to health was crucial for development, the demonstrated greater resilience. Preventive
achieving freedom from disease. Here are government launched various public health measures were implemented more effectively
some common tips. initiatives. The eradication of smallpox in the and recovery was quicker.
Balanced and Nutritious Meals: The 1970s and the significant reduction of polio Investing in health fosters ongoing effort
freedom struggle wasn’t just about breaking cases in the early 21st century are notable and resilience, building a stronger and more
free from colonial rule but also about milestones. These achievements underscore resilient nation. Regular health checkups
achieving self-determination, dignity and the the importance of collective action and are a key part of this investment, helping
right to live with self-respect. Similarly, the robust public health policies in achieving to ensure early detection and prevention of
fight for good health is a continuous struggle health freedom. diseases, thereby contributing to the overall
against diseases, malnutrition and inadequate Do: Ensure you are up-to-date with your well-being and strength of the population.
healthcare. Just as independence empowered vaccinations by consulting with your Dos: Schedule regular visits to your healthcare
the nation to chart its own course, balanced healthcare provider regularly to protect provider for check-ups and screenings.
and nutritious meals empower individuals to yourself and others from preventable diseases. Don’ts: Do not ignore symptoms or delay
lead lives free from the constraints imposed Don’t: Skip vaccinations based on medical consultations.
by illness and infirmity. misinformation or myths; always seek Conclusion
Dos: Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, information from credible sources and As we honour the legacy of our freedom
whole grains and lean proteins. consult healthcare professionals. fighters this Independence Day, let us
Don’ts: Avoid processed foods, sugary Clean Water: Access to clean water and commit to achieving freedom from disease.
beverages and excessive consumption of proper hydration are vital. When everyone By adopting healthier lifestyles and making
refined grains. has access to clean water, people are less informed choices, we can combat the rise of
Regular Physical Activity: A healthy likely to fall ill and the community prospers. lifestyle diseases and build a healthier nation.
population is the bedrock of a strong and Social events, festivals and gatherings can Just as Mahatma Gandhi and his army fought
vibrant nation. When citizens are healthy, take place safely, bringing people together, for the freedom of India, let us fight for our
they are more productive, more creative and strengthening social bonds, fostering unity. freedom from disease.

84 | UPPERCRUST | JUL-SEP 2024