What is Lifestyle Medicine?
Lifestyle medicine is an approach to healthcare that focuses on the role of lifestyle factors in preventing and managing various chronic diseases. It recognizes that many health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, are strongly influenced by lifestyle choices, including diet, physical activity, stress management, sleep and substance use, if applicable.
The core principles of lifestyle medicine involve promoting healthy behaviours and habits to improve overall well-being and prevent the onset or progression of chronic diseases. Healthcare providers practicing lifestyle medicine often collaborate with patients to develop personalized, sustainable strategies that address specific lifestyle factors contributing to their health issues.
What is involved with Lifestyle Medicine?
Healthcare professionals specializing in lifestyle medicine often prefer to work collaboratively with other medical specialties to provide comprehensive care. The goal is to empower individuals to take an active role in their health by adopting healthy lifestyle practices, ultimately reducing the burden of chronic diseases and improving overall quality of life.
Nutrition:
Emphasizing a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall health. This may involve recommendations for specific dietary patterns.
Physical Activity:
Encouraging regular exercise and physical activity as a means of maintaining a healthy weight, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing mental well-being.
Stress Management:
Recognizing and addressing stress as a significant contributor to many health problems. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises are often recommended.
Sleep:
Highlighting the importance of adequate and quality sleep in maintaining overall health and preventing chronic conditions.
Substance Use:
Addressing lifestyle factors such as tobacco and alcohol use and helping individuals make healthier choices in these areas.
Behavioural Change:
Supporting individuals in making sustainable lifestyle changes by addressing behaviour patterns and habits.
Is Lifestyle Medicine Right for You?
Lifestyle medicine is for individuals of all ages and backgrounds who are interested in optimizing their health, preventing chronic diseases, or managing existing health conditions through lifestyle choices. Here are some examples of groups and individuals who may benefit from lifestyle medicine:
Weight Management:
Individuals looking to achieve and maintain a healthy weight through proper nutrition, regular exercise, and behaviour modification.
Individuals with Chronic Diseases:
People dealing with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity can benefit from lifestyle medicine to manage and improve their health.
Those at Risk for Chronic Diseases:
Individuals with risk factors for chronic diseases, such as a family history of heart disease, a sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits, or high stress levels, can adopt lifestyle changes to mitigate these risks.
Preventive Healthcare:
People are interested in proactively preventing the onset of chronic diseases by adopting healthy lifestyle practices, even if they currently don’t have any specific health concerns.
Mental Health Concerns:
Individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues can benefit from lifestyle interventions, including stress management techniques and regular physical activity.
Seniors:
Older adults seek to maintain and enhance their quality of life through strategies like physical activity, a balanced diet, and social engagement.
Pregnant Women:
Expectant mothers can benefit from lifestyle medicine to support a healthy pregnancy, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management.
Benefits of Lifestyle Medicine
- Prevention/Reversal of Chronic Diseases
- Improved Cardiovascular Health
- Weight Management
- Enhanced Mental Health
- Increased Energy and Vitality
- Improved Sleep Quality
- Improved Digestive Health
- Enhanced Cognitive Function
- Increased Longevity
- Reduced Healthcare/Medication Reliance
- Improved Hormone Health
- Improved Quality of Life
Erin van Esveld
B.Sc., C.N.
Erin blends her science background in biology and kinesiology with advanced training as a Nutritionist in gut health, nutrigenomics, and epigenetics. Her interest in gut-based nutrition began after searching for solutions for her son following his ASD and ADHD diagnosis in 2018.
Passionate about addressing the root causes of health challenges, she supports clients in proactively managing their health and wellness through personalized nutrition and lifestyle strategies. Her work focuses on empowering and educating individuals, including those with neurodivergence, to thrive by utilizing Lifestyle Medicine interventions.
Lifestyle Medicine FAQ
What is lifestyle medicine, and how is it different from traditional medicine?
Lifestyle medicine focuses on preventing and managing diseases through healthy lifestyle choices, while traditional medicine often relies on medical treatments and interventions.
Can lifestyle medicine replace traditional medical treatments?
Lifestyle medicine is often used in conjunction with traditional medical treatments, and its effectiveness depends on the individual and the specific health condition. It is not a replacement for necessary medical interventions.
What lifestyle changes are typically recommended in lifestyle medicine?
Recommendations may include changes in diet, exercise, stress management, sleep, and substance use. The specifics depend on individual health goals and needs.
Does Lifestyle Medicine Benefit Hormone Health?
Yes, lifestyle medicine supports hormone health by promoting balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, adequate sleep, weight management, and other healthy habits that contribute to overall hormone balance. Lifestyle medicine provides the foundation for optimal hormone function.
Is lifestyle medicine only for people with existing health issues?
No, lifestyle medicine is for individuals of all ages and health statuses. It can be preventive, helping people maintain good health, as well as therapeutic for managing existing health conditions.
Does lifestyle medicine work for weight loss?
Yes, lifestyle medicine often includes strategies for weight management through a combination of healthy eating, regular exercise, and behavioural changes.
Can lifestyle medicine improve mental health?
Yes, adopting a healthy lifestyle can positively impact mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Regular exercise and mindfulness practices are commonly recommended.
How long does it take to see results from lifestyle changes?
Results vary, but many individuals experience positive changes relatively quickly, such as increased energy or improved sleep. Long-term benefits often require sustained lifestyle changes.
How do I know if I should sign up for a program or book a single appointment?
It is advisable to schedule a meet & greet appointment to assess the most suitable approach for your individual circumstances. Alternatively, if you choose to book a General Lifestyle Medicine appointment, the option to transition to a specific program can be discussed and facilitated during your consultation with your RN.
Is lifestyle medicine covered by Alberta Health Care or Benefits?
Lifestyle Medicine is currently covered through Health Spending Accounts provided by your employer.
Are there specific diets recommended in lifestyle medicine?
While there is no one-size-fits-all diet, lifestyle medicine often emphasizes whole, minimally processed foods. Specific dietary recommendations may vary based on individual health needs and preferences.
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