How to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease & Diabetes: Leading Chronic Diseases in the U.S.
The rise of fast food chains and processed foods in the United States has had a significant impact on the health of its population. The U.S., the world’s leading economy (by GDP), experienced a shift into a convenience-focused way of life due to the technological revolution in the 20th century. Modern cars became popular, highways systems were being built, and the mass production model introduced packaged and processed foods that we know today. Fast food chains like Mcdonald’s, KFC and Taco Bell were planted all over the country and bled into American culture. Along with TV dinners, cereals and packaged snacks, these processed foods became a dominant part of the American diet. As life became increasingly fast paced with the technological revolution, why wouldn’t people want their food to be too?
The Impact of Processed Foods on Long-term Health
As mentioned earlier this month, chronic diseases are now the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 74% of all deaths annually. In the U.S., chronic diseases are directly tied to lifestyle choices, including sedentary behavior and poor diets rich in processed foods. The long-term effects are felt both individually and by the country’s healthcare system. People’s resources and joy are drained and the system heavily invests in the prevention and care of chronic diseases.
But the power to change these outcomes is largely in your hands. With lifestyle changes, let yourself reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.
The Most Common Chronic Diseases in the U.S.
TYPE 2 DIABETES: This is the most common chronic disease in the U.S., affecting 38.4 million people. It is largely influenced by diet and physical inactivity.
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE: Affecting 16.6 million Americans, heart disease remains the second most prevalent chronic illness, closely tied to poor dietary choices and lack of exercise.
Steps You Can Take Right Now For Prevention
Get active!
Small changes like taking more steps throughout the day, will put you on the right track to your health. It doesn’t need to be a planned “walk” for 20 minutes, just get and move more often. Play some music to motivate you to move! Get up and dance if that brings you joy. Do whatever it takes!
Add nutrient-rich foods
Instead of focusing solely on removing processed foods, start by adding healthy alternatives. If your already managing a condition like high blood pressure, try a natural tea. For instance, boiling garlic and onion skin into a tea, naturally lowers LDL cholesterol and reduce high blood pressure. Be sure to wash and use the inner layers of the skin.
These are just two examples to help you get started. I suggest doing research in finding what your personal needs are. If you need a support system to take your health more seriously, here’s a link to a guide in finding the right one for you: click here.
Conclusion
Chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease are largely influenced by lifestyle choices. With the right changes—be it more physical activity or smarter food choices—you can take control of your health and reduce your risk.
Ready to transform your nutrition and overall wellness? Build better nutrition and lifestyle habits through virtual coaching! Contact Coach Dee today.
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About the Author: Coach Dee
Deborah Park, known as Coach Dee, is the owner of Drip Training LLC and an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Health Coach. With a background in architecture and kinesiology from the University of Virginia, she has extensive experience in personal training and athletic coaching in a clinical (physical therapy) setting. Coach Dee combines her scientific knowledge with years of hands-on experience and generational knowledge of food as medicine to create programs that empower clients to regain control over their bodies and minds.
Her journey into personal training was deeply influenced by her personal struggles, including recovering from a life-changing car accident that led to PTSD and pain from scoliosis. This experience gave her a unique understanding of the connection between mental health and physical well-being. Coach Dee is committed to helping clients develop resilience, build strength, and rediscover their confidence—no matter the challenges they face.
