December 3, 2012
Those of us in the healthcare coverage industry, are the first to admit that health insurance is not cheap. And while there are many reasons for this, one of the most influential involves the staggering amount of people who have essentially given up on their good health. It's easy to think that one person couldn't possibly affect the system as a whole, but the truth is that they most definitely can.
Since we're all in this together--yes, even insurance brokers have to pay full price for our healthcare coverage--it makes sense that we should all be working to keep these rates as low as humanly possible. Here are some practical ways to stay healthy while fighting the cost of high health insurance premiums.
Stop Touching Your Face
You would think that this would be common sense by now, but I constantly see people who wipe their nose immediately after punching in their ATM code. This is exactly how germs spread, and the end result is usually a trip to the family doctor for antibiotics. Get in the habit of keeping hand sanitizer within reach at all times, and don't be afraid to use it. Reducing the spread of pathogenic germs can have a significant impact on the number of otherwise unnecessary physician visits which, over time, can ultimately help reduce the amount we all have to pay when something serious happens.
Get an Annual Physical
Let's be honest. No one really enjoys getting a physical, but it remains one of the best ways to detect, diagnose and treat serious health issues before they have a chance to wreak havoc. Having annual blood work done, in addition to heart scans and physical evaluation is essential for anyone concerned with maintaining a good state of health. Moreover, addressing potentially-serious health concerns before they have the chance to fully manifest is one of the best ways to collectively reduce the rising cost of IL health insurance premiums.
Supplement Your Diet with Good Nutrition
Most people would agree that their daily diet could use some serious improvement. For those who don't have the time or resources to prepare fresh, wholesome meals every day, certain dietary supplements can help fill the void left behind by consistent non-nutritious food intake.
Taking a fish oil supplement, for example, is an outstanding way to help support healthy cardiovascular function. A fiber supplement is ideal for anyone who does not consume 4-5 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables. And for those who survive on a drive-through diet, a high-potency multiple formula can help bridge the nutritional gaps that stem from common deficiencies.
Do Everything You Can to Reduce Stress
Stress sets off a domino effect within the body, placing increases stain on the heart, blood pressure, immune system and more. Over time, as evidenced by ongoing research, chronic stress can serve as a catalyst to a wide range of diseases and health conditions, such as depression, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and many others. Finding ways to reduce your daily stress level is critical. Meditation, prayer, music, exercise and social interaction are all great ways to keep stress under control and drive health insurance premiums down.
Zinc Lozenges at First Sign of Cold or Flu
Researchers have known for years that zinc--the active compound in many of these products--has the ability to inhibit the growth and survival of many bacteria. Taking zinc lozenges coats the throat with a thin layer of zinc that makes it very difficult for germs to thrive. Taken daily, they can help protect you from the billions of airborne particles out there just waiting to send you to the doctor.
It's up to all of us to help keep insurance premiums low. With a little knowledge and some good common sense, there's no good reason why we can't help keep them under control. Premier has a certified nutritionist on site whose ready to answer your health questions, free of charge. For more information, please call 800-369-0287 or send us an e-mail.