GIGO is an acronym from the early days of computer science.
"Garbage in, garbage out" refers to the truism that the quality of what a computer program produces is dependent on the quality of the data you input. The same principle applies to our lives.
THOUGHTS
On both a conscious and unconscious level, our thoughts influence our emotions and our behaviour.
Have you ever had a dark day when everything seemed to go wrong and you couldn't see the bright side of your situation?
Most people bounce back when their circumstances improve. But some people continue a cycle where pessimistic thoughts narrow their perspective.
Some people are more proactive. In the face of a challenging situation, they recognize their own resources and where they can be applied to improve their situation.
WHAT YOU EAT
Your body is more complex than a computer or any other machine, and it is sensitive to what you consume.
What you eat serves as the building blocks of your cells. You really are what you eat. Garbage in, garbage incorporated.
No one diet is perfect for everyone. A high fat diet should be avoided by those at risk for arterial disease, and a starchy, high glycemic index diet is inappropriate for those with diabetes. Sodium can raise the blood pressure of those who are salt-sensitive. Although a diet high in fibre, fruits and vegetables with moderate amounts of fish and healthy nuts such as almonds is generally recommended, it may not be appropriate for an individual with specific food allergies.
Of course, street drugs and excessive alcohol have negative effects on us. We would all do well to be mindful of everything we put into our mouths.
RELATIONSHIPS
Your friends and family have a major influence on both your beliefs and your behaviour.
This isn't always positive. Friends can normalize unenlightened attitudes and unhealthy behaviour.
If all your friends smoke, you are more likely to, and it will be harder for you to quit.
Every week, at least one of my patients is surprised when I tell them that the healthy daily limit for alcohol is two standard drinks. A standard drink is 148 millilitres of wine (12 per cent alcohol), 44 ml of spirits (40 per cent) or 355 ml of beer (five per cent).
Young people may be used to drinking a six-pack on a weekend, not realizing that they are binge drinkers.
On the other hand, positive, active and healthconscious friends can lift us up. Open-minded friends can share different points of view and encourage us to discover new experiences.
What we put into our lives has significant effects on what we get back.
Dr. Davidicus Wong is a family physician and writer. Read more at davidicuswong. wordpress.com.
