Avoid Risky Substances: A Critical Component of Lifestyle Medicine

Understanding Substance Use

Substance use disorders affect millions of people worldwide. According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 46.3 million people aged 12 and older in the United States had some type of substance use disorder within the last year

Tobacco Cessation Benefits

Quitting smoking can significantly improve health outcomes:

• Increases life expectancy by up to 10 years

• Reduces the risk of premature death

• Lowers the risk of COPD, cardiovascular disease, reproductive disorders, and various cancers, including lung cancer

• Improves the condition of some people with coronary artery disease and COPD

Immediate and Long-term Benefits

• Within minutes: Blood pressure and heart rate return to normal levels

• Within 24 hours: Body clears toxic carbon monoxide, increasing available oxygen

• Within 1 month: Heightened sense of smell and taste, improved lung function

• After 9 months: Significant lung healing, including repair of cilia that fight infections

• After 1 year: Risk of coronary artery disease decreases by half

• Within 5 years: Blood vessels repair, reducing the risk of stroke

Alcohol Moderation Benefits

Limiting alcohol consumption can have positive health impacts:

• Reduces the risk of chronic diseases and death

• It’s best not to drink alcohol at all for cancer prevention

• Zero alcohol consumption minimizes harm across health outcomes

Evidence-Based Strategies

Research supports several effective approaches to managing substance use:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has shown significant efficacy in treating substance use disorders

• Mindfulness-based interventions can reduce cravings and prevent relapse

• Regular exercise has been associated with decreased substance use and improved recovery outcomes

The Role of Lifestyle Medicine

Lifestyle Medicine principles complement traditional substance use treatments:

• Improved nutrition can support recovery and overall health

• Regular physical activity can reduce cravings and improve mood

• Stress management techniques can help cope with triggers

• Building strong social connections supports long-term recovery

At iLIVE Health Coaching, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about your health. By addressing substance use as part of a comprehensive lifestyle approach, we can work together towards achieving lasting health and wellness.

Remember, seeking help for substance use is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're ready to take control of your health and well-being, contact Us today to learn more about our personalized approach to Lifestyle Medicine.

References

Avoidance of Harmful Substances

https://gwdocs.com/specialties/lifestyle-medicine/avoidance-harmful-substances American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Preventing Drug Misuse and Addiction: The Best Strategy

https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/preventing-drug-misuse-addiction-best-strategy