Nathan E Botts

Invoking Technology to Improve Health

Personal Health Information Transformation

For the majority of my life, I've been physically active and healthy. Even though I've always had a few extra pounds, I strive to eat healthily and work out often. That didn't stop age and some pandemic laxity from catching up with me. My doctor and I were a little concerned about a couple things at my yearly appointment in December. I made a goal of exercise for January and better eating in 2022.

After reading Robert Cain's essay on his attempts to improve his health, I reflected on how I've utilized technology to assist me in this endeavor. I look forward to meeting Robert at various social occasions. I'm really anticipating our next meeting so I can witness the changes for myself.

He utilizes a variety of gadgets, including an Apple Watch, an iPhone, and a few others, to monitor his health. He can monitor his development and export data for his doctor. The author makes some suggestions and explains how technology might be beneficial. As a contrast to what I do, I found it intriguing.

As a substitute for my recollection of my health and exercise routines, technology provides me with a light touch picture of how I'm progressing. I don't keep a food diary, but I have been on a very restricted diet, so I have an idea of how many calories I'm consuming on a daily basis. I don't keep track of how much water I drink, but I started filling and emptying four 12-ounce bottles every day. I wear my watch to track my activity and heart rate, but I usually check it to see whether I am exerting myself to the fullest and if my long-term heart rate pattern is shifting. When it comes to keeping tabs on my weight, I use an app that requires me to walk on a scale every day or two.

Working at a desk, especially in the technology industry, can lead to a sedentary lifestyle. Despite the fact that I attend to the gym often, my wife is definitely healthier because she works outside and is physically active most days. Some of us may be able to enhance our health with the use of technology. Technologies like games and social media have a significant impact on the way we tackle problems. Data entering may be made easier thanks to a variety of gadgets.

If you're trying to get healthier but finding it difficult to make lifestyle changes like cutting out sugar or exercising more, have a look at Robert's piece and consider how you may use technology to your advantage. If you do make use of technology, consider sharing your experiences in the hopes of inspiring others.

In terms of personal objectives, what can I say? I went to the gym 48 times between Jan. 4 and March 2. It's not perfect, but for now, it'll do. As a result of the weight loss, my resting heart rate has fallen below 50bpm for the first time in my life. I'm glad that I can easily see some incremental progress, which is not always apparent when I rely on my memory of what my stats were a month ago. Technology didn't make this happen, but it helped.

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