The start of a new year is a good time to think about change. Small changes to our daily habits can make a big difference, and so below we list some simple ideas that will put you and your family on the path to healthy success in 2021!
1. Get your exercise.
Regular exercise is probably some of the best medicine we can give ourselves. Studies show that exercise works wonders for our moods while it also improves our physical health. It can help control weight, maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints while also reducing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
A good brisk walk for 30 minutes a day is the top recommendation, but you can also break your exercise down into smaller increments. Taking the stairs a few times a day plus a couple of ten minute walks quickly add up. Throw in a bit of stretching to stay limber, and you’ve got a full workout!
2. Eat your breakfast.
Research shows that those who eat breakfast every day tend to take in more vitamins and minerals and less fat and cholesterol throughout the day. Scientists theorize that eating breakfast means we aren’t overly hungry later on and tempted to grab something less nutritious to satisfy our cravings. Eating breakfast lowers your chance of obesity and type-2 diabetes.
It’s also important to note that when you wake up, the blood sugar and other nutrients your body needs are low. Eating a high fiber and high protein breakfast gives you the fuel and energy you need for the day. It also gives you more focus and makes you less tired.
3. Stay hydrated.
Drinking enough water is pivotal to keeping every cell of your body and its organs – from skin to kidneys to heart to brain – functioning well. One easy way is to drink one extra glass of water a day. Add a sprig of your favorite herb or a slice of lemon for extra flavor!
Another option is to replace diet soda with carbonated water. Research says that artificial sweeteners do more harm than good, so changing over to carbonated is a pleasant substitute that satisfies.
4. Get some sleep.
There are good reasons why eight hours of sleep has long been the rule. Sleep is when the cells of your brain get to work tidy up old cells and doing repair work. However, new research from Italy shows that chronic under-sleeping may mean those cells get carried away with their tidying and even destroy things that were perfectly fine. Scientists also point out that this same kind of activity is something often seen in those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Encourage their efforts and reap the benefits by going to bed a half hour earlier than your usual time. Spend that time reading, meditating, or doing some simple stretches to ease out the aches and pains of the day. Routines like this help quiet the mind and signal to your body that it’s time to get some rest.
We often take shortcuts with our health, and just a little adjustment here and there can help us live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Support those efforts by making blackcurrants part of your New Year resolutions!
