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A new year means a new you. It’s time to make those healthy changes that you’ve been talking about for months. However, being healthy means more than just getting a physical from your primary care provider in Elkridge, MD, each year. There are plenty of day to day decisions that can greatly affect your overall health. If you are looking to improve your well-being, here are a few small changes you can make that will have a big impact on how you feel and your health. - Make healthy eating choices. The food you eat has a direct impact on your health. The worse you eat, the worse you will feel. However, there are small changes you can make that will have a huge impact on your health. When it comes to snacking, consider trading out chips and candy for veggies and fruit. You can even dip them in peanut butter or hummus for added flavor. When it comes to meals, make sure that you have a large portion of veggies next to your entrée. Also, try to eat less red meat and more fish and chicken. This can decrease your risk of heart disease and help you to lose weight.
- Drink more water. Water is extremely important. Without it, the organs in the body cease to function correctly. So, try trading out your soda, juice, and coffee for a glass of water. Your skin will look and feel better. It will increase your cognitive function and rehydrate your body. If you don’t want to drink it plain, consider putting fruit, mint, and cucumber in it. This will provide a cool and refreshing change of flavor.
- If you can’t run, walk. If you’ve made the resolution to exercise more, you’ve made an excellent choice. Exercise can decrease depression, anxiety, and your risk for disease. However, beginning to exercise after you’ve been sedentary for so long can be difficult. If you find that you are having a hard time doing cardio or lifting weights each day, try walking. A 30 minute walk can get your blood pumping and increase your overall well-being. Plus, it’s a great way to lose weight and gain muscle tone. It’s the perfect activity to do with your children and spouse as a way to get them to be more active as well.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep impacts you more than you know. If you are in the habit of getting to bed late and getting up early, now is the time to change it. Studies show that adults need anywhere from 7-9 hours of sleep. Without enough sleep, you could feel foggy and have a hard time functioning. Plus, you could have a harder time losing weight or shaking depression and anxiety. Make you a priority this year. Get the sleep you deserve.
- Put down the devices. While social media can allow you to keep in contact with friends from all over the world, it can also keep you from living a healthy lifestyle. Turn off the TV, put down the computer, and interact with those around you. Laughter truly is the best medicine. Being emotionally and socially healthy is just as important as being physically healthy. By spending quality time with your friends and family, you will develop hobbies and appreciate life more. You can also use all of your new found spare time to exercise and be active.
Making healthy changes is a great way to start out a new year. It will make you feel better and more refreshed. However, no matter how healthy you feel, be sure to check in with your primary care provider in Elkridge, MD, at least once a year for a checkup and physical!
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