Health Secrets from Around the World: The United States

In the United States, where work and career are given immense importance, people often struggle to find time for lunch. The fast-paced lifestyle and tendency to snack have a significant impact on the health of the population.

A well-known issue is the prevalence of obesity among Americans. However, many Americans value a healthy lifestyle. There is a growing understanding in society that prevention is easier—and much cheaper—than treatment.

Discussions about healthy living are frequently featured in the media. Smoking is widely condemned, and various health programs targeting all age groups are being implemented. The American middle class is particularly active in promoting a healthy lifestyle, evident in the regular visits to gyms and pools, which are plentiful and affordable across the country.

Questions about balanced and nutritious diets are being raised at all levels. Modern trends are gaining popularity, especially with the increasing environmental and health awareness among the population, leading to sensible limitations or even complete abstention from meat products.

Americans have a well-developed consumer culture; they master the art of deciphering food labels to avoid excess calories and additives.

In the U.S., there is a love for both fast food and sports. However, American researchers have published findings indicating that excessive exercise can be even more detrimental than a sedentary lifestyle. Moderate physical activity is beneficial, with recommendations suggesting no more than 20 miles per week (approximately 4.5 miles a day).

For fans of more refined sports, golf and tennis are widely available. Yoga classes are also commonly practiced.

Healthy eating is emphasized, especially with numerous celebrities promoting balanced nutrition. Juice cleansing, or “juicing,” gained popularity in 2014, featuring drinks made from ginger and coconut, cucumber and kale, spinach and celery, and beets.

The juicing effect is based on low-calorie meals that contain no fat while being rich in vitamins and minerals. However, it is not recommended for those with gastritis or stomach ulcers. Proponents of juicing claim it has remarkable health benefits.

Currently, one in five Americans owns a fitness tracker. The street workout movement, which originated in the early 2000s in the U.S., is also gaining popularity. Founded by Hannibal King, this movement offers excellent workout routines suitable for urban environments. His initiative, promoting the idea of “A healthy, strong body without any expenses,” has successfully spread globally.