How is health best defined?

Health is best defined as a combined state of physical, mental, and social well-being because this definition encompasses the holistic nature of what it means to be healthy. It goes beyond simply being free of illness or disease, which is a narrower view that fails to account for the various aspects of life that contribute to overall well-being.

A balanced diet and physical fitness are certainly important components of health, as they play significant roles in physical well-being, but they don't capture the complete picture. Mental health, emotional resilience, and social connections are also crucial in establishing a person’s overall health. Therefore, defining health as a comprehensive state that includes physical, mental, and social aspects provides a more accurate and inclusive understanding. This perspective aligns with the World Health Organization's definition of health, emphasizing that it involves a positive state of complete well-being, not merely the absence of disease.