Wellness: Expert tips for living a healthier life
Dr. Pedro Andrade, one of the pioneers in precision medicine in Brazil and a functional medicine enthusiast, teaches how to start in 2023 with a new lifestyle.
Starting a healthier diet or creating an exercise routine is part of the New Year's checklist for most people, and it is a fundamental goal, far beyond aesthetics, these habits help us to have a good quality of life and that our body function at its full capacity.
For those who still don't know where to start, Dr. Pedro Andrade, one of the pioneers in precision medicine in Brazil and a functional medicine enthusiast, teaches how this start should be. “There is this doubt about what to do first: diet or physical activity? Despite being a combination of these two elements that will bring a more satisfactory and lasting result, I recommend physical activity in the first place” , he says.
According to the expert, when it comes to creating a new lifestyle with healthier habits, physical exercise can be a determining factor due to the chemical scenario created in our brain. “Among other important roles that physical activity plays in our brain, it increases the density of dopamine and serotonin receptors in response to pain and physical exertion. This improves motivation, resilience and promotes better choices throughout the day, which can even reflect on food” , he explains.
Still according to Dr. Pedro, just thirty minutes of any moderate physical activity a day already creates a chemical environment that provides several benefits to health and well-being. "A tip to start exercising in a light and pleasant way is to choose an activity that you like and that fits into your routine. It doesn't necessarily have to be going to the gym. A walk in the morning or at the end of the day, exercises at home, a fight, dance classes in the style you've always wanted to learn. Everything is valid, the important thing is to take the first step”.
The expert also emphasizes the importance of maintaining the frequency of the chosen activity, until it becomes part of the routine. “If your goal is a change in behavior, the practice of exercises helps a lot, but it must be done correctly. It is important to be constant and remember that our body takes about two months to understand a task as a habit, so if your goal is to reach 2023 with healthier practices, the time to start is now”, he concludes.
Remembering that it's always important to see a doctor and get regular exams.
Pedro Andrade - Doctor
CRM 174,700
