The Financial Benefits of a Healthier Lifestyle
Many of us have been given the medical advice to eat healthier and get regular exercise. While there are definitely daily benefits to these choices, such as feeling more energetic, having an improved mood, and experiencing less joint/body pain. However, few people consider the potential financial benefits of a healthier lifestyle, as we often assume that eating healthy = expensive.
Although spending more money upfront on things like healthy foods or gym memberships may seem contrary to a frugal lifestyle, the money you save in both monthly spending and the long run justifies the initial costs.
Less spending on filler foods
Choosing whole foods over packaged, processed foods like chips and other snacks means you're getting better nutrition for your buck.
Changing your snacking habits can help you do this, along with adjusting portion sizes to fit your body’s needs. This will also help shave your spending. You can also cut down on other indulgences like tobacco, alcohol, or fast food, and direct those savings into your investments or retirement plans. Healthier eating habits and reduced substance use will impact your budget now, as well as help you save on potential health costs later.
Higher-income
The healthier you are, the less likely you are to need sick days (however, if you do need them, certainly use them). Consuming more produce can improve your immune system so you're less likely to get sick. That means you can save any paid time off for vacation, and keep your paycheck higher. Also, the longer you stay healthy, the more income-earning years you have.
Fewer prescription costs
Preventable chronic illnesses require a lot of ongoing treatment with medication, and your out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions can add up if your medicines aren't covered. Eating healthy boosts your overall health, so hopefully, barring genetic predispositions, those choices will reduce your need for expensive medications. Coupled with regular exercise, it can prevent heart disease, among other chronic conditions that require regular medication. Spending on prescriptions reached a total of $33.7 billion CAD in 2018 and has only grown since.
When you prioritize lifestyle habits like exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and stress management, you're less likely to develop conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you stay at an optimal weight and manage your blood sugar levels, as well as your blood pressure. You may also be able to reduce the severity of certain illnesses.
Hopefully, this blog provided you with some financial incentives to get back in the gym and enjoy healthy meals. It’s also important to note that it’s totally OK to enjoy all of life’s indulgences in moderation. When you’ve prioritized a diet of less processed foods and sugary drinks, you can enjoy the occasional indulgence or trip to the drive through without feeling too guilty. Life is about balance and enjoying your time for as long as you can.
Good luck!
Please note that the medical information shared in this blog is provided only as a resource and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnosis or treatment purposes. This information is based on publicly available studies and research and does not replace proper medical advice provided by a physician.
Always consult your healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about any specific medical condition you may have. Do not stop taking medications or prescriptions unless advised by a doctor. Thank you.
