Lifestyles and disease cannot be separated. Particular lifestyles changes can help intercept particular disorders. Some lifestyles changes improve fitness and quality of life and reduce risks of many different disorders.

The three leading causes of death are heart disease, cancer, and stroke. These are more likely to happen in people who make poor lifestyle choices, especially eating a diet high in calories, saturated fats, trans fatty acids, and cholesterol (such a diet increases the risk of having high cholesterol levels in the blood); not exercising regularly; and smoking, By having informative discussion with doctors and other health care practitioners, people can make good decisions and establish healthful habits.

Establishing and maintain a healthful lifestyle can be done only by the person. Consistently eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise are difficult for many people. However, doing so can prove to be exciting, rewarding, and affordable. Some important parts of maintaining a healthful lifestyle follows.

Healthful eating habits can help people prevent or control diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and certain cancers. A diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole-grain cereals and breads is recommended, in part because such a diet is high in fiber. Cutting down on harmful types of fat and instead eating fish, skinless poultry, and very lean meat and choosing low fat dairy foods are recommended as well. Calories are best limited to maintain mended as well. Calories are best limited to maintain a recommended body weight. Limiting salt and getting adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D are also recommended.

Physical activity and exercise can help prevent obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, some types of cancer, constipation, falls and other health problems. The best routine includes moderate physical activity for 60 minutes or more on all or most days of the week. However, getting even a little bit of exercise is much better than none at all. For example, people who can devote only 10 minutes at a time to physical activity may still reap important benefits, particularly if the exercise is vigorous or if they repeat the activity throughout the day. Walking is one simple, effective exercise that many people enjoy. Certain types of exercise can also target specific problems. For example, stretching improves flexibility, which can help prevent falls. Aerobic exercise may decrease the risk of heart attacks and angina. Quitting smoking is important to a healthful lifestyle. A doctor can offer encouragement and advice on ways to successfully quit smoking, including information and recommendations on the use of nicotine replacement products, bupropion and varenicline (drugs that help reduce craving), and other tools.

Safe sex practices remain important. Key safe sex practices are avoiding risky sex partners and remaining mutually monogamous. People who have more than one sex partner can greatly reduce their risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease by using a latex condom properly every time they have sex. People who are allergic to latex can use other kinds of condom.

Limiting alcohol use is important. Although small amounts of alcohol, particularly red wine, may have some health benefits, drinking more than moderate amounts (for example. 1 to 2 drinks per day, possibly less for women) is often harmful. Each drink is about 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of more concentrated liquor, such as whiskey.

Injury prevention plays a major role in maintaining a healthful lifestyle. For example, people can lower their risk of injury by taking certain precautions.

Adequate sleep is also an important part of a healthful lifestyles, particularly effecting mood and mental state. Insufficient sleep is a risk factor for injuries.