An extensive Mayo clinic study reveals that most Americans take at least one drug, and many take two or more. While prescriptions for lifestyle-related chronic diseases (high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes) are on the list, the most prescribed drugs are antibiotics, antidepressants and painkilling opioids. Twenty percent of patients are on five or more prescription medications, according to the findings.
A COSTLY ISSUE
Prescription drug use has increased steadily in the U.S. for the past decade. The percentage of people who took at least one prescription drug in the past month increased from 44 percent in 1999-2000 to 48 percent in 2007-08. Spending reached $250 billion in 2009 the year studied, and accounted for 12 percent of total personal health care expenditures.
With obesity now officially classified as a disease, prescriptions will continue to rise especially as pharmaceuticals to treat obesity rush to market.
The cost is not only monetary, side effects to patients abound. Learn more about specific drugs and their side effects. The good news is that lifestyle choices can reduce or even eliminate your condition and your drug dependence.
WHAT YOU CAN DO DIFFERENTLY
Type 2 diabetes, blood pressure, depression and of course obesity can be reduced and possibly reversed. It’s within your control.
- exercise 3-5/x per week for at least 30-minute per session
- eat more nutrient-dense whole foods (fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish)
- avoid processed and fried foods
- reduce stress (meditate, spend time in nature, get a pet)
Living a healthier lifestyle leads to a higher quality of life meaning more joy and happiness for you and those around you.
Love,
JoAnn
Feel Better in Your Body 