UNITED STATES – January 1, 2023 – At the beginning of every new year, many Americans decide to be healthier by making lifestyle changes. This involves giving up bad habits and starting good routines. Popular resolutions include starting an exercise program, losing weight and eating a healthier diet. Health clubs are pretty busy at this time of year. However, as the year progresses the gym isn’t as crowded as many people lose their commitment to being healthy.
Here’s a list of resolutions that will get you healthier this year:
- Lose weight & keep it off – The CDC estimates that about 40% of adults in the U.S. are obese. Losing weight can lower the risk of developing chronic health conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. The best plan is to lose about 1-2 pounds per week.
- Eat a healthy diet – For starters, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables each day. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and full of vitamins and minerals. Eat a rainbow of colors for a balanced diet.
- Sit less & stay active – Walking is a good start. Use the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Have an annual check-up – See your primary care physician each year. The sooner health issues are identified, the sooner treatment can start and be most effective. Don’t forget that preventive screenings are covered by health insurance.
- Reduce stress – Chronic stress is very harmful to your health and well-being. Taking care of yourself can help maintain good mental and physical health. Breathing exercises, going for a walk and listening to music can help.
- Get more sleep – This is a good time to rest and recharge. Getting enough sleep can boost your immune system to better fight disease and help with emotional wellness. Having some time for relaxation before bedtime and having a quiet place to sleep can help you get to sleep.
- Stop smoking – Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. Even using smokeless tobacco puts you at higher risk to develop cancer of the mouth. Both lead to nicotine addiction which makes quitting a difficult thing to do because of the tobacco cravings.
You can succeed by turning your New Year’s resolutions into healthy new habits. Some tips for success are:
- Set specific & realistic goals
- Monitor your progress
- Celebrate small successes
- Be aware that you don’t have to live healthy 100% of the time
Congratulations on making healthy New Year’s resolutions! Staying the course will result in a healthier YOU in 2023.
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Contact: Dick Needleman, Health reporter, 103.3 AshevilleFM, healthyasheville@ashevillefm.org