WHO Issues Guidelines on Healthy Living

The World Health Organization has released a set of updated recommendations promoting everyday actions to improve physical and mental well‑being, particularly as part of its broader strategy to reduce non‑communicable diseases (NCDs). These guidelines emphasize that small, sustainable lifestyle changes can significantly lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and other major illnesses.Key recommendations include engaging in regular physical activity: adults should aim for 150–300 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, or 75–150 minutes of vigorous activity, along with strength training twice weekly. WHO also advises children and teens to get at least 60 minutes of moderate‑to‑vigorous activity daily, including muscle- and bone-strengthening exercises three times per week.
On the dietary front, WHO urges people to follow a balanced, nutrient-dense diet that includes a variety of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. The guidelines recommend limiting free sugars to less than 10% of daily energy intake — with under 5% being ideal — and reducing intake of saturated fats and trans fats. Additionally, salt should be limited to less than 5 grams per day, and when used, ix should be iodized.
WHO also underscores the importance of reducing sedentary behavior — long periods of sitting or inactivity — as part of its physical activity guidelines. Officials say that countries need to create enabling environments that support these healthy behaviors, such as safer walking and cycling infrastructure, stricter food policies, and widespread public awareness campaigns.