Some people say that to prevent illness and disease, governments should focus more on reducing environmental pollution and housing problems

On the other hand, there are various causes for diseases and the primary one is poor nutrition. In the last several decades, lifespans globally have increased exponentially, largely as a result of advances in medical science and greater understanding of the human body. A standout example of this would be the plant-based diets that are widely recommended by most nutritionists. A person who consumes little meat, reduces their carbohydrate intake, and mostly does not eat sugar will drastically lower the risk of conditions ranging from diabetes and heart disease to Alzheimer’s and cancer. National health authorities can widely and effectively address these health problems by legislating the levels of unhealthy ingredients in food products.

In conclusion, those in favor of combatting housing and environmental problems make legitimate arguments though improving the average citizen’s diet is in fact the best guarantee of good health. Naturally, governments should pursue a balanced policy.

Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

1. 
   Certain concerned parties today contend some people now argue
   

Certain concerned parties today contend that government should pay more attention to education than to sport.

2. 
   optimal means of improving public health best ways of keeping people healthy
   

optimal means of fighting against crime is education

3. 
   confront pressing environmental and housing problems deal with modern problems related to the environment and where people live
   

one of the pressing issues of today is pollution

4.