An acute illness (cold, flu, infection etc) is often a sign to us that we need to take a break and perhaps spend a few days in bed. Unsurprisingly I am not a fan of the various over-the-counter potions that promise you’ll be back at work the next day. If we maintain a good level of health, keeping ourselves balanced in terms of exercise, nutrition and emotional stability, we are much less likely to become ill. Prevention is most definitely better than cure.
Emotional trauma
A big emotional upset such as a bereavement, job loss or relationship breakdown is often the cause of illness, although the symptoms may not appear for some weeks or months afterwards. The more that emotions are bottled up, the more likely illness is to ensue.
We really are what we eat (or what we absorb), and continually eating a poor diet will take its toll on energy levels, as well as affecting mood, sleep and concentration. I am still surprised when people tell me that they don’t eat vegetables or fruit, and I wonder what they do eat. The essential minerals and vitamins from fruit and veg are absolutely essential for good health.
Toxicity and parasites
Most people have some degree of toxicity in their bodies – we live in a world of pollution, man-made materials and pharmaceutical drugs, all of which can affect our bodies years later. I recently read that 80% of the world’s population has parasites. They are most likely to be present in anyone who has travelled to exotic countries and anyone with exposure to animals.
Too much/little exercise
As a nation we are becoming more idle. Those who exercise too little are definitely at risk of become ill, however those who train very hard can also be susceptible to illness – it is almost as though their body has no reserves left to fight an infection. Exercising outside is the most beneficial, as you will absorb essential Vitamin D from sunlight (you can even absorb it in on a cloudy winter day).
Ongoing stress
Anyone who is in a difficult relationship or a job they dislike is subject to an ongoing stress, which almost becomes unnoticed after a period of time. However, this constant level of stress can result in illness; I believe that our body is forcing us to take some time to reflect on the changes that we need to make. The stress may be environmental too, such as living in a damp house, or next to a mobile phone mast.
These five causes shouldn’t be taken in isolation – if someone is subject to a sudden emotional trauma, they are much more likely to become ill if their nutrition is poor and they take no exercise.
I may be one step to help people along their path to health, but only one person can be wholly responsible for ensuring your good health … and that’s you!
