Health Nut Part Two

Posted on August 7, 2008

Some time ago I wrote a post on being a so-called “health nut.” I am still amazed at the reactions of some people when they see that I like to take care of myself. I like to exercise. I like to train and compete in triathlons. I like to eat fruit, vegetables, and other healthy foods. I am by no means perfect with my eating or training, but I try to do the best I can.

“What are you, some kind of health nut?” is a question I get asked a lot. The answer is yes. I am still a health nut. If being a health nut means trying to take care of myself, then yes, I am. Is that a problem for you?

I will be honest – I don’t know why some people look down on others and make snide comments to them for trying to take care of themselves. Actually, my hunch is that they do it because they know they should be trying to take care of themselves, but for whatever reason, they aren’t.

To all of you who look down on people trying to take care of themselves:

No one is forcing you to take care of yourself. No one is making you eat fruit instead of a brownie or cookie. No one is forcing you to get some exercise. You can choose. I simply choose to get plenty of physical activity and, for the most part, eat pretty healthy foods. What’s it to you if I, or anyone else, choose to do that?

If you want to increase your risk of a heart attack, stroke, some cancers, and many other chronic diseases by not taking care of yourself, that’s fine. You are free to live your lifestyle how you want. If others choose to reduce their risk of chronic disease by living healthier, let them be the “health nuts” that they are.

Guess what? Being a “health nut” and trying to take care of yourself is not the worst thing in the world.