Executive Director of The Arise Center for Holistic Health, Wellness, and Nutrition (ARCH), Pharm. Emelia Baffour Awuah has warned against unhealthy lifestyles, emphasizing that poor dietary habits and neglect of fitness can shorten life expectancy.
She gave the remarks during her presentation on "Regenerative Health and Nutrition and Introduction of First Aid" on the second day of the Leadership Diary Training Program (LDTP) in Accra on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
Pharm Emelia stressed the dangers of relying on convenience foods, encouraging participants to adopt healthier eating habits to prevent diseases that could be avoided through conscious efforts.
She highlighted the significance of a strong immune system in preserving health. "A little breach of the immune system leads to degeneration," she said, adding that once the body begins to weaken, it becomes difficult to reverse the damage.
The wellness expert urged young people to take control of their health to increase longevity. "You need to make a conscious effort to increase your life expectancy," Pharm advised, warning that diseases "reduce us to a pile of ruins."
Comparing the state of human and animal health, she remarked, "Even animals appear stronger and healthier now due to degeneration," hinting at how poor lifestyle choices have undermined human health.
Pharm Emelia also touched on the dangers of specific habits, saying, "Too much salt increases blood pressure," noting that excessive alcohol consumption "can cause obesity." She underscored the importance of regular exercise, describing it as essential: "Exercise is medicine."
The session concluded with a brief introduction to first aid, equipping participants with practical tools to handle emergencies. Pharm Emelia's presentation served as a call to action for young people to prioritize health and wellness to lead more productive lives.