Health Science Summary

Health Overview

  • Health is a comprehensive state of well-being (physical, mental, social, emotional, spiritual).

  • Influences: Rest/sleep, exercise, diet, substance use (tobacco/alcohol/drugs), environmental factors.

Definitions

  • Health: More than absence of disease; includes wellness perspectives.

  • Optimal Health: Highest potential level, even amid chronic illness.

  • Wellness-Illness Continuum: Ranges from optimal health to early death.

Dimensions of Health

  1. Physical Health: Body functioning effectively.

  2. Mental Health: Emotional, psychological, social well-being affecting thinking, feeling, and actions.

  3. Emotional Health: A component of mental health; involves responses to stress and emotional challenges.

  4. Social Health: Interactions and relationships; impacted by social connections.

  5. Spiritual Health: Finding purpose; can go beyond religion.

Levels of Health

  • Individual Health: Focus on personal and family health.

  • Community Health: Overall health of a specific community.

  • Population Health: Groups sharing characteristics; e.g., specific diseases.

Factors Influencing Health

  • Rest and Sleep: Essential for recovery; recommendations vary by age.

  • Diet and Nutrition: Important for health; should include a variety of nutrients and limit unhealthy foods.

    • Recommended carbohydrates: 45-65% of daily calories.

    • Recommended fats: 20-35% of daily calories (max 10% saturated).

    • Proteins: 10-35% of daily calories necessary for tissue repair.

Vitamins and Minerals

  • Vitamins: Essential for various body functions (e.g., Vitamin C for immunity).

  • Minerals: Important for bones, nerve functions, muscle activity; intake varies for men and women.