Savings Day – Health and Wealth

Health and wealth are related in multiple ways. 

Health professionals recommend that adults spend a minimum of 2 ½ hours of moderate aerobic exercise and muscle strengthening each week. This reduces the risk of certain diseases and improves sleep and mood – not to mention lowering stress and anxiety. A recent study found that adults who maintained moderate or high levels of exercise saved more than $1200 annually in health care costs. Those who exercised in young adulthood saved nearly $2,000. Those who waited to exercise until after age 40 saved less, but averaged around $800 per year. Rutgers published the financial impact that various health-related changes could make. Here are some findings: 

• Save $3 a day currently spent on junk food, alcohol, or fast food – that’s $1100 annually.

• Get 2 meals from 1 by eating smaller servings – annual savings $500

• Quit smoking – save $1800

• Substitute pasta, beans, or soup for meat several times each week  – and save $800 

• Reduce eating out 2 meals per week – save $500

These simple changes total nearly $5000 per adult. That’s $10,000 per couple! In addition, healthy people pay lower premiums for life insurance, and they increase the odds of living a long and healthy life. Investing in your health is as important as stocks and bonds.

Many couples struggle with credit card debt due to medical expenses. If you’re one of them, I recommend Christian Credit Counselors. They’ll create a debt management plan that works for you. For more information call the Crown Helpline: 800-722-1976 or visit online at crown.org/ccc.