A Healthy Lifestyle: Care Instructions

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A healthy lifestyle can help you feel good, have more energy, and stay at a weight that's healthy for you. You can share a healthy lifestyle with your friends and family. And you can do it on your own.

Eat meals with your friends or family. You could try cooking together.

Plan activities with other people. Go for a walk with a friend, try a free online fitness class, or join a sports league.

Eat a variety of healthy foods. These include protein foods, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains.

Choose healthy portions of food. You can use the Nutrition Facts label on food packages as a guide.

Eat more fruits and vegetables. You could add vegetables to sandwiches or add fruit to cereal.

Drink water when you are thirsty. Limit soda, juice, and sports drinks.

Try to exercise most days. Aim for at least 2½ hours of exercise each week.

Keep moving. Work in the garden or take your dog on a walk. Use the stairs instead of the elevator.

If you use tobacco or nicotine, try to quit. Ask your doctor about programs and medicines to help you quit.

Limit alcohol for better overall health. For some people, it’s best to avoid alcohol completely.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

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Current as of: February 27, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: February 27, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.