Mental wellbeing vital for overall health, says expert

dubai — All of us at some point or the other have taken our health for granted. Only when our health begins to deteriorate do we realise how long we spent leading it to that stage, despite knowing that our actions would lead to severe consequences.

Being healthy does not mean just looking thin or fit. An individual is healthy only if he is physically and mentally healthy, said Dr Harikanth, internal medicine specialist, Aster Clinic, Bur Dubai.

Physical health is majorly related to what keeps the body functioning effectively, it depicts the external well-being of an individual.

The importance of consuming a healthy balanced diet is enough stressed upon already. Avoid junk food completely. Indulging and giving into your cravings is acceptable

Being healthy does not mean just looking thin or fit. An individual is healthy only if he is physically and mentally healthy.” Dr Harikanth, internal medicine specialist, Aster Clinic Bur Dubai

once in a while. However, it is recommended to cut off completely from oily, fried and fatty foods.

“It is important to know the difference between good carbs and bad carbs and consult with a dietician who would best recommend a suitable diet,” he said.

Stay hydrated at all times by drinking lots of water and eating foods high in water content. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by avoiding unhealthy habits like smoking and cut down on drinking. Stay active and involve in any form of physical activity to stay physically fit.

Mental health

Learn to de-stress yourself every now and then. Stress often causes distress and imbalance in life. People with high levels of stress tend to be unhappy, they tend to eat more, sleep less all leading to an unhealthy life.

Stress is a part of life and it is necessary to deal with it effectively to maintain one’s sanity.

Your waking up and sleep timings should be fixed, as it will help in maintaining an ideal sleep-wake cycle. Establish and maintain healthy personal and professional relationships. Physical and mental health and well-being go hand-inhand and overall health can only be achieved if an individual aims at holistic well-being.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com