New Year's Day has long been a time for reflection on the personal changes we want to make as we look forward to a new year. Health-related goals are popular New Year's resolutions, but you may not know where to begin.
To help you get started on the path to better health, here are 11 easy tips. Celebrate your successes and feel good about yourself as you make progress. Thank you for making better health your resolution in 2011!
1. Be physically active - Try simple things, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Be active for at least 2 ½ hours a week, and help kids and teens be active for at least one hour a day. Details...
2. Make healthy food choices - Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Limit your portion sizes, avoid foods high in fat and sugar, and reduce your sodium (salt) intake. Details...
3. Drink plenty of water – at least 7 to 8 glasses of water per day - avoid sugar sweetened beverages like soda, sports drinks, and other beverages that contain added caloric sweeteners. Details...
4. Quit smoking – If you smoke and want to quit---or know a smoker who wants to quit---help is just a phone call away at 1-866-QUIT-YES. Details...
5. Practice good hygiene - Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Details...
6. Take care of your teeth and gums – Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss every day, and see your dentist regularly. Details...
7. Practice safe sex – Use protection and know your HIV status, as well as your partner's. Details...
8. Avoid addictive substances and behaviors – If you are struggling with alcohol or other substance abuse addictions, help is a phone call away at 1-800-662-HELP. Details...
9. Drive safely - wear a seatbelt or helmet, stay off your phone, don’t text while driving and never drink alcohol and drive or let others drink alcohol and drive. Details...
10. Say no to stress – Get a full night’s sleep, get organized, exercise, and make time for something enjoyable. Details...
11. Take charge of your health – Know your risk factors for various diseases and conditions. Work with your doctor or other regular health care provider to map out a prevention-focused strategy to keep yourself in good health. Details...
...and these 11 tips are just a few good ideas to get you started on the path to better health. There are many things all of us can do to improve our own health, as well as the health of our families and communities. Please visit this website regularly throughout 2011 for more healthy ideas!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.