No more self-sacrifice: Women must take control of their health; focus on healthy diet and exercise

The self-sacrificing woman of the household is not just another trope. It’s apparently a reality that we are far too used to in India. And, when this behaviour extends into ignoring one’s health, the situation can go from ‘okay’ to bad very fast.

“A recent survey indicates that, as Indian women strive to do the best in their profession and life, they are neglecting their health. According to the survey, out of the total respondents, 16% did not go for any tests while 63% went for health check-ups only if they were unwell. It also revealed only 39% of women were covered by any health cover. Among those who were not insured, 53% never gave a thought to purchasing health insurance, the report mentioned. The survey also indicated that more than 80% of men and women interviewed believe that the breadwinner should primarily be insured against health and life-related threats,” according to Anuradha Sriram, Chief Actuary, Aditya Birla Health Insurance.

She goes on to add that usually, women are less conscious regarding their health owing to a few reasons such as lower literacy rate, lower employment, and social stigma when it comes to physical exercise, food and eating habits etc.


“Childbirth and care is an additional factor, which radically takes away a lot of time from them. Regardless of the odds, women from all walks of life multitask all the time. Unfortunately, they are not very vigilant about their health. Women are the support system of the family as homemakers and as employees in the workforce. Since they are involved in taking care of their families and workplaces, most of them usually neglect their routine check-ups, unless it is the need of the situation,” writes Sriram.

Her advice: women must take time out for themselves, emphasize on eating a proper balanced and assorted diet and get an appropriate amount of exercise. It’s for a reason that passengers are advised to put on their own oxygen masks first in case of an emergency, before helping others. A healthy and fit you will be better equipped to aid and nurture others.