Health and Wellness

Articles of interest

Using Your Passion for Health to Advocate for Others  by Naomi Johnson

When you're passionate about health, it's more than a personal commitment—it becomes a compass that guides how you show up in the world. You see things others might miss: the gaps in access, the misinformation floating around, the systems that seem to benefit some and leave others behind. And once you see those things, it’s hard to unsee them. That’s where the drive to do something bigger than yourself kicks in—not just staying healthy for your own sake, but becoming a voice for others, especially those who aren’t always heard.

Start with Listening
Before you even think about leading any kind of health advocacy effort, it’s crucial to understand what your community actually needs. That means spending more time listening than speaking. Whether it’s chatting with neighbors at the park or attending local health board meetings, every conversation can open a window into someone else’s lived experience. You might learn that access isn’t the only issue—maybe folks don’t trust the system, or maybe it’s transportation, or language barriers, or simply feeling judged at clinics.
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Find Your Lane
Health is a wide field—physical, mental, emotional, environmental, you name it—so you can’t take it all on at once. Your best bet is to find a corner of it that genuinely energizes you, and then get specific. Maybe you’re fired up about food justice or mental health access for teens. Don’t try to become a generalist; instead, double down on what matters most to you. That clarity helps you focus your energy and connect more deeply with others working in the same space.

Use What You Already Know
You don’t need a degree or a title to make an impact—you just need to apply what you already have. Maybe you’re a parent who’s figured out how to navigate pediatric care and insurance red tape. Maybe you’ve been through recovery and know what it feels like to start over. Those real-world insights are pure gold in advocacy work, especially when shared in spaces that often overlook the value of lived experience. You’re not just speaking up; you’re bringing the reality check people need to hear.

Launch a Business That Benefits Health
Starting a health-based business is equal parts mission and hustle—it demands a clear vision, relentless planning, and the kind of resilience that doesn’t crack under pressure. You’ll need to identify a real need, craft a service or product that addresses it meaningfully, and build trust with the people you aim to serve. Using an all-in-one business platform like ZenBusiness can make a huge difference by helping you form an LLC, stay compliant, launch your website, and manage your finances all in one place.

Partner with the Right People
Doing this work solo is admirable but rarely sustainable. The impact multiplies when you collaborate with local organizations, schools, clinics, or even other concerned citizens. Partnerships let you tap into existing infrastructure while still bringing your own flavor and fire. Plus, there’s a built-in accountability that helps keep things from stalling when the going gets tough—because it always does at some point.

Tell Better Stories
Facts and data are important, but what really moves people is stories—personal, honest, human stories. You can be the person who brings those narratives into the light, whether that’s through social media posts, community newsletters, or open mic nights that center health themes. When someone hears a story that echoes their own experience, it chips away at the shame and isolation that so often surrounds health struggles. You’re not just informing—you’re connecting.

Be Willing to Stay Small
It’s tempting to chase big wins, but sometimes the most lasting change comes in the quiet, overlooked moments. Don’t underestimate the power of mentoring one teen, organizing a neighborhood walk group, or helping someone fill out a confusing insurance form. These aren’t glamorous tasks, but they’re the glue that holds real progress together. Every ripple you create matters, even if it never makes the evening news.

Keep Learning and Evolving
Even if you’ve been in the game for a while, health is a constantly shifting landscape—new studies, new policies, new challenges. Staying informed shows you care about doing right by the people you’re advocating for. Attend workshops, follow thought leaders, and be open to feedback, even when it’s hard to hear. The best advocates aren’t just passionate—they’re humble enough to know they’ll always have more to learn.
Your passion for health can be a launchpad for something bigger than personal wellness. It can evolve into action that serves your community, challenges broken systems, and brings healing where it's needed most. The path won’t always be clear, and you’ll probably mess up more than once. But as long as you keep showing up with honesty, curiosity, and heart, you’re already making a difference. And in a world that’s overwhelmed by noise, your genuine, steady voice can be exactly what someone else needs to hear.
Explore a wealth of career resources and personalized coaching at Ask Professor John. Join a supportive community dedicated to helping you achieve your professional goals.

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Health

A health approach typically focuses on several key elements to ensure overall well-being and prevent illness. Here are the main components:

1. Preventive Care: Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations to detect and prevent health issues early on.
2. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to provide essential nutrients and maintain a healthy weight.
3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, enhance flexibility, and boost mental health.
4. Mental Health: Managing stress, seeking therapy or counseling when needed, and practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
5. Sleep: Ensuring adequate and quality sleep to support physical and mental health.
6. Hydration: Drinking enough water to maintain bodily functions and overall health.
7. Hygiene: Practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and dental care, to prevent infections and diseases.
8. Avoiding Harmful Behaviors: Steering clear of smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use.
9. Health Education: Staying informed about health issues, understanding how to manage chronic conditions, and making informed health decisions.
10. Social Connections: Building and maintaining strong relationships to support emotional and mental well-being.

By incorporating these elements into your daily routine, you can create a well-rounded approach to health.
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Wellness and Alcohol 

​I Tried Alcohol-Free Socializing for a Month—Here’s What Happened

Are any types of alcohol less risky than others? →

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This drinking habit is more dangerous than bingeing. →

Mocktails are fun, fresh, and full of flavor without all the potential health risks that come along with alcohol. They can still allow you to enjoy the social aspect of a delicious drink in hand while doing something great for your body.

“Given the increased awareness around alcohol’s connection to cancer, mocktails are becoming a more attractive option,” shares Alexis LaPietra, DO, FACEP, Medical Director of the RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery (IFPR) and System Director of Addiction Medicine for the Emergency and Hospitalist Service Line. “Not only do they provide a festive and flavorful alternative, but they also allow you to reduce your alcohol intake without feeling like you’re missing out on social occasions.”
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Dr. LaPietra points out that alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States and that your risks increase with regular consumption of alcohol, so understanding those risks is crucial to making informed decisions.

When the U.S. Surgeon General announced his warning earlier this year, less than 50% of Americans were aware that alcohol is linked to cancer. Dr. LaPietra emphasizes that educating the public is crucial to helping individuals understand the risks associated with alcohol. She also adds that while cutting back on alcohol won’t drop your cancer risk overnight, it can lower the risks over time.

“Whether you’re worried about breast cancer, which is the most common alcohol-related cancer in women, or colorectal cancer, which tops the list for men, cutting down on alcohol can be a smart move,” Dr. LaPietra shares. “Small changes, like opting for mocktails, can help reduce your risk and improve your overall health.”

You might be wondering: What does this mean if I enjoy a casual drink? Should I stop consuming alcohol entirely? The answer: It can be a step-by-step approach.
“I encourage people to ease into it, especially if they are a regular drinker. Trying out a ‘dry month’ is a great way to see how you feel without alcohol,” shares Dr. LaPietra. “Many people notice they’re more energized and productive, which is always a bonus.”
Dr. LaPietra also recommends talking with your primary care physician, as they can help guide you towards healthier choices, whether that means cutting back or stopping alcohol consumption altogether.

If you would like support in reducing your alcohol use, contact IFPR’s Peer Recovery Program at 848-303-0008 to speak with a certified recovery specialist. Recovery specialists can help you build healthier coping skills, reduce your use of substances and cultivate a supportive community. You can also visit rwjbh.org/preventionandrecovery to learn more about the RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery.
So, why not start by mixing up a mocktail as your go-to drink and toasting to better health at your next gathering? You’ll still be part of the fun without all the added risks!
Here are some tasty recipes to get you started below. Cheers!
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​Blue Zones are regions where people live significantly longer and healthier lives. There are five well-known Blue Zones:

1. Okinawa, Japan: Known for its strong social networks and plant-based diet.
2. Sardinia, Italy: Famous for its high concentration of male centenarians, largely due to a plant-based diet and active lifestyle.
3. Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica: Residents benefit from a nutrient-dense diet and a strong sense of purpose.
4. Ikaria, Greece: Notable for its Mediterranean diet and communal lifestyle.
5. Loma Linda, California, USA: Home to a community of Seventh-day Adventists who follow a vegetarian diet and emphasize rest and reflection[1][2][3].

These regions share common lifestyle traits such as a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, strong social connections, and low stress levels, contributing to their residents' longevity.
Are you interested in learning more about the lifestyle habits in these Blue Zones?

References
[1] 5 Blue Zones Where People Live the Longest, Healthiest Lives - TIME
[2] Blue zone - Wikipedia
[3] Why People in “Blue Zones” Live Longer Than the Rest of the World

​https://www.gourmetnews.com/double-tasty/

​Wellness

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​A comprehensive health and wellness approach involves several key elements that work together to promote overall well-being. Here are some of the essential components:

1. Physical Wellness: This includes regular exercise, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption[1][2].
2. Emotional Wellness: Managing stress, expressing feelings appropriately, and maintaining a positive mindset are crucial for emotional health[2][3].
3. Intellectual Wellness: Engaging in lifelong learning, stimulating mental activities, and embracing creativity help keep the mind sharp and active[1][2].
4. Social Wellness: Building and maintaining healthy relationships, having a strong support network, and participating in community activities contribute to social well-being[2][4].
5. Spiritual Wellness: Finding meaning and purpose in life, whether through religion, meditation, or personal reflection, supports spiritual health[2][4].
6. Occupational Wellness: Achieving a healthy work-life balance, finding satisfaction in your work, and pursuing career goals are important for occupational wellness[4].
7. Environmental Wellness: Being aware of your surroundings, living in a healthy environment, and taking steps to protect the planet are aspects of environmental wellness[2].
8. Financial Wellness: Managing your finances effectively, planning for the future, and reducing financial stress are key to financial health[2].

By focusing on these elements, you can create a balanced and holistic approach to health and wellness. 

References
[1] 5 Components of Health and Wellness - Weljii
[2] 8 Pillars of Wellness: Essential Elements for a Balanced Life
[3] The Key Elements of Wellness - wholehealth.com
[4] Six Dimensions of Wellness - National Wellness Institute

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​​Top-selling books on health and nutrition

Here are some of the top cookbooks focused on healthy cooking:

1. "The Well Plated Cookbook: Fast, Healthy Recipes You'll Want to Eat" by Erin Clarke - This cookbook offers a variety of healthy and delicious recipes that are easy to prepare, even for beginners[1].
   
2. "The Complete 30-Day Whole Foods Cookbook for Beginners" by Alice Newman - A great choice for those looking to follow a whole foods diet, with 800 recipes and a 30-day meal plan[2].
   
3. "Skinnytaste One and Done" by Gina Homolka - Perfect for busy cooks, this book provides fast and healthy recipes that can be made using one pot, pan, or appliance[3].
   
4. "Prep, Cook, Freeze: A Paleo Meal Planning Cookbook" by Caroline Fausel - Ideal for those following a Paleo diet, this book includes meal planning tips, grocery lists, and family-approved recipes[2].
   
5. "The Plant-Forward Solution" by Charlotte Martin - Focuses on plant-based recipes that are both nutritious and delicious[2].
   

These cookbooks offer a range of healthy recipes and meal planning tips to help you maintain a nutritious diet. Do any of these sound interesting to you?

References
[1] Top 8 Best Healthy Cookbooks in 2025 - Straight.com
[2] 12 Best Healthy Cookbooks of 2024 - Taste of Home
[3] 20 Best Healthy Cookbooks ([year]) - That You Must Have! - Ereads

​Unions and employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. Here are some key approaches they take:
Unions' Role in Mental Health and Well-Being

1. Advocacy and Support: Unions advocate for better mental health policies and support systems within workplaces. They push for access to mental health services and resources, ensuring that employees have the support they need[1].
2. Collective Bargaining: Mental health provisions are often included in union contracts. This can involve negotiating for mental health days, access to counseling services, and creating a supportive work environment[2].
3. Education and Training: Unions provide education and training on mental health awareness. This helps reduce stigma and encourages employees to seek help when needed[1].
4. Creating Safe Work Environments: Unions work to improve working conditions, which can significantly impact mental health. This includes advocating for reasonable work hours, job security, and a supportive workplace culture[1].

Employers' Role in Mental Health and Well-Being

1. Workplace Culture: Employers are encouraged to foster a positive and supportive workplace culture. This includes promoting work-life balance, recognizing the importance of mental health, and providing resources for employees[3].
2. Mental Health Programs: Many organizations implement mental health programs that offer counseling, stress management workshops, and other resources to support employees' mental well-being[3].
3. Leadership Commitment: Leadership plays a crucial role in prioritizing mental health. By openly discussing mental health and leading by example, leaders can create an environment where employees feel comfortable seeking help[3].
4. Policy Implementation: Employers can implement policies that support mental health, such as flexible working arrangements, mental health days, and comprehensive health benefits that include mental health services[4].

Both unions and employers play vital roles in promoting mental health and well-being, creating a more supportive and productive work environment for all employees.
Is there a specific aspect of mental health and well-being in the workplace that you would like to explore further?

References
[1] Why trade unions are crucial for battling mental health issues
[2] Mindful Bargaining: Unions Can Play Major Role in Addressing Mental Health
[3] Striving for Mental Health Excellence in the Workplace
[4] Workplace Mental Health & Well-Being - HHS.gov
[5] Mental Health and Well-Being in Philosophy | SpringerLink
[6] Unions are not only good for workers, they’re good for communities and ...
[7] https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/mental-health%29

Best Sellers in Nutrition

Recent Posts in Wellness

​Mar 24, 2025
​Celebrate National Cocktail Day with Delicious Mocktails

Here are some of the top health information sites that provide reliable and comprehensive resources:

1. Mayo Clinic: Offers authoritative information on diseases, conditions, and healthy living tips
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2. WebMD: Provides a wide range of health information, including symptom checkers, drug information, and medical news
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3. Healthline: Features in-depth articles on various health topics, including wellness, nutrition, and medical conditions
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4. MedlinePlus: A service of the National Library of Medicine, offering information on diseases, conditions, and wellness issues
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5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Provides updates on public health issues, disease prevention, and health promotion
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6. National Institutes of Health (NIH): Offers extensive resources on medical research and health information
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7. Everyday Health: Focuses on personalized health advice, tools, and communities
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8. MedicineNet: Delivers authoritative medical and wellness information for consumers
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9. Medscape: Aimed at healthcare professionals, providing medical news, clinical guidelines, and continuing education
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10. Merck Manuals: One of the world's most widely-used medical guides, offering information on a variety of health topics
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