As you look back at 2017 in the rearview mirror and forward to 2018, you’re probably reflecting on some ways that you can improve your well-being. In fact, it’s commonly expected that you’ll make a New Year’s resolution. Here are the Top 7 New Year’s Resolutions to better health in 2018. Why not choose one of these goals?
You may be asking yourself why you should commit to a healthier lifestyle instead of making more money or finding love. Fair questions. If you’re healthy, you’ll be better equipped to tend to the other areas of your life: romance, finance, children, and career. Here’s the hard truth. You can only look after your loved ones after you’ve looked after yourself!
You may also be feeling like you’ve made resolutions before but didn’t “stick” to them. That’s okay. It’s common to need several attempts to stick with changes. What happened with last year’s New Year’s resolution is the past. Keep it there. Make 2018 the year that you’re really ready to embrace these changes in your life.
1. KICK TOBACCO TO THE CURB
Smoking is a nationwide epidemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control, over 36.5 million Americans use tobacco. That’s over 15% of our population. These numbers include both smokers and people who chew their tobacco.
Tobacco users are more likely to develop:
● Heart disease
● Lung and breathing disease
● Mouth/throat cancer
● High blood pressure
● Less stamina
Start small by cutting back. Ultimately, you should see your primary care doctor for help to kick tobacco to the curb for good.
2. COMMIT TO WEIGHT LOSS
Weight loss is perhaps the most common New Year’s resolution. The CDC reports over 36% of Americans are obese, and that number rises every year. Experts point out that as our society becomes less manual and more automated, we continue to pack on the pounds.
Obesity can lead to:
● Type 2 Diabetes
● Lack of self-confidence
● Inflammation of the joints
● Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
● High blood pressure
● Feeling short of breath
Success is more likely if you carefully portion out your foods, plan ahead for healthy snacks, increase your exercise, and ask your family and friends for their support. All of these little changes can add up to a great outcome.
3. WORKOUT MORE OFTEN
Even people who frequent a gym regularly often wish they had more time for workouts. Exercise has great health benefits. Lack of physical activity can lead to:
● Poor sleeping habits
● Insufficient calorie burn and weight gain
● Increased risk for stroke, heart attack, and diabetes
● Lowered self-confidence
Even if you can’t get to a gym, increase your daily steps, take brisk walks, or invest in an exercise mat so you can workout at home! A session or two with a personal trainer will ensure that you are working out safely and sensibly.
4. DECREASE YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE
While it’s fine to sip an occasional glass of wine or share after-work cocktails with friends, too much alcohol consumption puts you at risk for the following:
● Weight gain
● Dehydration
● Poor sleeping habits
● Headaches
● Driving accidents
● Poor judgment
● Alcohol addiction
Make alcohol a treat to be enjoyed with friends on special occasions. Don’t forget to designate a driver before you head out for a night of fun. Better yet, call an Uber!
5. IMPROVE SLEEPING HABITS
Adults need 6 to 7 hours of good sleep a night. A commitment to better sleeping habits can improve the overall quality of your life. Poor sleeping habits are common in the United States. It’s a health issue that’s known but not addressed as seriously as weight loss, lack of exercise, or smoking.
However, poor sleeping habits contribute to:
● Drowsy driving
● Lower immunity to cold and flu
● Depression
● Anxiety
Start by going to bed at the same time each night. Remove distractions like ambient light from your cell phone. Don’t eat or drink alcohol right before you retire. These tips will help you get the sleep that you need.
6. SPEND TIME RELAXING
As a society, we are stressed out! Spend some time relaxing so that you can learn to control that stress that you feel. In fact, too much stress can cause:
● High blood pressure
● Sleep deprivation
● Feelings of anxiety or worry
● Inability focus at work
Some things you can try to increase relaxation include working on a calm hobby, working out, meditation, or treating yourself to a manicure or new haircut.
7. EAT MORE VEGETABLES
Our meals are often full of empty calories and high in fat. In fact, a recent survey shows that over 70% of Americans consume meals from fast food chains at least once a week. These restaurants may offer apple slices as a side or salads, but they are more an afterthought!
Eating too few vegetables can make you prone to:
● Constipation
● Weight gain
● Stomach and digestive issues
● High blood pressure
● Heart disease
● Stroke
In fact, you might be surprised to learn that you should be consuming a minimum of 5 to 9 servings of vegetables and fruits every day!
Start by adding a large, green salad every day to replace an unhealthy lunch from your favorite fast food chain. Add some steamed greens to your dinner plate. Reach for apples or grapes instead of candy bars or chips when you’re ready for a snack.
These will help you increase that number of daily servings to the recommended amount.
In conclusion, embrace these New Year’s resolutions to improve your health. These changes will improve your overall health and make you feel like you are taking charge of your own well-being. Once you have made these improvements, you will be better equipped to take charge over other important areas of your life!