Although the consequences of the pandemic on people’s general well-being are becoming increasingly visible in medical consultations, it is also remarkable how much awareness has been raised about the urgent need Adopting healthy habits that include nutrition, physical activity and exploring leisure-related activities to reduce stress.
“Both local and global studies indicate that more than 60% of people gained weight compared to pre-pandemic as a result of less physical activity, increased alcohol consumption, and “emotional eating” associated with stress. Other variables, such as Sleep disturbances and changes in habits and routine also had an effect”, explains Dr. Pamela Szalen (MN 137935 | MP 550657), specialist in nutrition and general and family medicine at Medif.
And he points out that during the pandemic, those who were already overweight were the people most affected. is that obesity brings endless health problems in the short, medium and long term, such as changes in cardiometabolic and/or kidney; increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, pain, joint problems; or suffer consequences in sexual and reproductive health.
Among the main recommendations Dr. Szalen mentions improving health and generating wellness is through meal planning (including purchases, schedules, menus), eating a healthy diet including vegetables and fruits, and avoiding processed and ultra-processed foods. In turn, it is essential to plan as far as possible a physical activity and a recreational activity that the person enjoys. It will help manage stress and will also improve sleep and relaxation.
According to the expert, “Physical activity strengthens muscles and reduces body fat, thus helping to reduce the chances of suffering from heart diseases. In turn, insulin sensitivity is increased and this leads to diabetes, high The risk of blood pressure and cholesterol is reduced. Also, the release of endorphins reduces the risk of suffering from depression.”
On the other hand, he points out that from his experience, patients are more attentive to taking care of their health than they were pre-pandemic. “Covid-19 inspired a new trend, reinforced by the possibility of conducting all types of gyms or yoga classes via streaming, for example,” said Dr. Szalen insisted.
In this framework, companies and organizations took over. As an example, Medifay enables its partners to provide free access to a vitality, wellness program that harnesses the power of incentives, data and behavioral economics to promote physical activity and reward achievements.
Vitality works through a mobile application, which proposes weekly physical activity goals. Activity is recorded via a cell phone or smart watch, linked to the application, which measures the number of steps and/or heart rate. By meeting weekly goals, users add points that can later be exchanged for vouchers, discounts or physical rewards at Vitality Argentina Mall.
This is just one example of how all social actors can collaborate in spreading healthy habits that improve the quality of life of people.
