How Your Other Half Affects Your Health
When we think of health, we tend to think of our own daily habits, routines, history and more. But what about your partner? For better or worse, relationships shape our long-term health. Here are the good and not so good health effects your partner can have on you.
Fitness improvement
Research has found that improving your own fitness could also improve the fitness of your spouse. Sometimes the best motivation to get moving can come from the person you spend the most time with. The American Heart Association recommends that adults should exercise at a moderate intensity for a minimum of 150 minutes per week.
Diet derailment
While exercising with your partner is a great idea, dieting may not be. Research shows that the more success one partner has with dieting, the less confident the other partner becomes at controlling their portions. You can make small lifestyle changes instead of competing against each other. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new diet.
Health goals
Taking up healthy habits is easier with a partner. Researchers found that 50% of women succeeded in quitting smoking if their partner gave up at the same time. That’s compared with only 17% whose partners were non-smokers already and just 8% whose partners smoked regularly. If you or your partner are trying to quit smoking, check out our Tobacco Cessation Incentive Program. You’ll find helpful tools and resources to keep you motivated and help you quit for good.
Diabetes risk
Research suggests that if someone has type 2 diabetes, their partner has a 26% increased risk of developing it. Partners tend to share the same environment, social habits, eating and exercise patterns. These are all factors that contribute to type 2 diabetes risk.
Whether you are in a new relationship or celebrating your 50th anniversary, time spent with your partner can influence your health. Wherever you are in your journey, try taking up healthy habits together.
