Health & Wellness: Everyday Health for Body & Mind
Staying healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. This section provides simple, friendly guidance for everyday well-being—covering physical, mental, and emotional health. You’ll find practical ideas for stress relief, eating better, building routines, and improving sleep. The content is free of technical language and designed to support real-life situations. It’s not about rules—it’s about helpful suggestions that fit your lifestyle. Key terms are also explained to help you feel more confident when reading health-related content.
Understanding Health Terms
Acute Illness
A condition that develops quickly and lasts a short time, such as a cold or the flu.
Adrenaline
A hormone released during stress or excitement that increases heart rate and energy levels.
Allergen
A substance that causes an allergic reaction, such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods.
Antioxidants
Compounds found in foods like berries, nuts, and dark chocolate that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Blood Pressure
The force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries, measured as systolic over diastolic pressure (e.g., 120/80 mmHg).
Body Mass Index (BMI)
A numerical measurement of body fat based on height and weight, often used to assess obesity risk.
Cardiovascular Health
The overall health of the heart and blood vessels, influenced by factors like diet, exercise, and cholesterol levels.
Chronic Disease
A long-term condition like diabetes or asthma that requires ongoing management.
Circadian Rhythm
The body's internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles, hormone release, and other biological functions.
Detoxification (Detox)
The natural or medically-assisted removal of toxins from the body.
Dopamine
A neurotransmitter associated with motivation, pleasure, and reward in the brain.
Endocrine System
A network of glands that produce hormones, regulating functions like metabolism and growth.
Gut Microbiome
The collection of bacteria and microorganisms in the digestive system that impact digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Homeostasis
The body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment, such as temperature or blood sugar levels.
Hypertension
A medical condition where blood pressure is consistently too high, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Immunity
The body's defense system against infections, supported by vaccines, nutrition, and overall health.
Influenza (Flu)
A contagious viral infection affecting the respiratory system, often preventable with a vaccine.
Macronutrients
Nutrients needed in large amounts, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, essential for energy and body function.
Metabolism
The chemical processes in the body that convert food into energy and regulate weight, influenced by factors like age and activity levels.
Neuropathy
Nerve damage that often causes pain, tingling, or weakness, commonly associated with diabetes or other chronic illnesses.
Obesity
A medical condition characterized by excessive body fat, often measured using Body Mass Index (BMI), which can lead to health complications.
Osteoporosis
A condition where bones become weak and brittle due to loss of bone density, increasing the risk of fractures.
Pathogen
A microorganism, such as a virus, bacteria, or fungus, that causes disease and infections.
Psychosomatic
A condition where mental or emotional stress contributes to physical health issues, such as headaches or digestive problems.
Saturated Fat
A type of fat found in animal products and processed foods that can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Trans Fat
A type of artificial fat found in processed foods that can increase bad cholesterol levels and raise the risk of heart disease.
Vegan Diet
A plant-based eating plan that excludes all animal products, often chosen for health, ethical, or environmental reasons.
Wellness
A holistic approach to health that includes physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being.
Zoonotic Disease
A disease transmitted from animals to humans, such as Lyme disease or COVID-19, often spread through direct contact or vectors like mosquitoes.