Definition of healthy
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Comprehensive Definition of Healthy: Physical, Mental, Social, and Spiritual Health
The concept of "healthy" is broad and multi-dimensional, going far beyond just the absence of disease. Most research agrees that being healthy includes physical, mental, social, and sometimes spiritual well-being. A healthy person is not only free from illness or disability but also has harmonious physical and mental development, adapts well to their environment, realizes their abilities, and contributes to their community in a way that matches their capabilities 23. This holistic view is echoed in the World Health Organization’s definition, which describes health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not just the absence of disease or infirmity .
Healthy as a Value and a State of Wholeness
Health is often seen as both a value and a state of being. It is considered a foundation for achievement and a precondition for a good life. The idea of health as "wholeness" or being "at peace" with oneself and one’s surroundings is common across cultures and languages . This means that health is not just about measurable physical functions but also about feeling whole, intact, and able to live life fully, even in the presence of some illness or disability 35.
Healthy Lifestyle: Behaviors and Choices
A healthy lifestyle is defined by behaviors and choices that promote and maintain health. This includes physical activity, balanced nutrition, mental well-being, and the avoidance of harmful habits. It is an active process where individuals consciously make decisions that support their biological, psychological, and social functions, aiming for longevity and quality of life . The absence of harmful habits and the presence of positive, health-promoting activities are key features of a healthy lifestyle .
Healthy Diet: Key Components and Patterns
A healthy diet is a major part of being healthy. It is generally defined as one that includes a variety of plant-based foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, seeds, and nuts) and limits unhealthy options like processed meats, added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats. Dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets are often cited as examples of healthy eating because they are linked to lower risks of chronic diseases 467. However, definitions of what foods are considered "healthy" can vary between regulatory agencies and cultures, and sometimes even foods commonly thought to be healthy may not meet strict regulatory criteria .
Healthy Across the Lifespan and in Different Contexts
The definition of healthy can change with age and context. For example, healthy aging is not just about the absence of disease but also about maintaining physical, mental, and social functioning as people grow older 89. Children, too, have broad definitions of healthy that include not just nutrition and illness, but also mental health, cleanliness, and environmental factors . This shows that the meaning of healthy is influenced by personal, cultural, and societal factors.
Conclusion
In summary, being healthy is a complex, multi-faceted concept that includes physical, mental, social, and sometimes spiritual well-being. It is about more than just not being sick; it involves living in a way that promotes overall well-being, adapts to life’s changes, and values wholeness and quality of life. Healthy behaviors, a balanced diet, and positive social and mental health are all essential parts of this definition, which can vary depending on age, culture, and individual values 12345678+2 MORE.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic