Want to make 2018 your healthiest year yet? Then look no further. We’ve got seven tips to help you start the New Year right. Every year the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) publishes a list of healthy living tips – this year they’ve released six tips and we’ve added a special bonus one as well! There’s no better time than now to get healthy.
1. Get Regular Check-Ups
If you’re like me you dread going to the dentist. But regular oral and medical exams are important – they help prevent problems before they start. I have to remind myself prevention is easier and usually cheaper than treatment later on. Additionally, finding problems early, according to the CDC, makes your chances for treatment and a cure better.
2. Wash Your Hands
Flu season is here and this year it isn’t pretty. So make sure you wash your hands often with soap and water to prevent the spread of infection and illness. The CDC actually has a guide for when and how to wash your hands here.
3. Eat Well
A healthy diet includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains and fat free or low fat dairy products. Also recommended by the CDC are lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt and added sugars. I’m going to make a concerted effort this year to cut back on the sugar!
4. Be Active
The CDC believes adults should get at least 2½ hours a week of moderate-intensity physical activity. Make small changes to achieve this goal by taking stairs instead of elevators or parking farther away to get more walking in. If it’s cold outside consider mall walking – a little window-shopping can be fun on a wintery day.
5. Don’t Smoke
Be smoke free in 2018. Need help to quit? Find inspiration and help on the CDC’s site through their Tips From Former Smokers® campaign here.
6. Sleep
Adults need at least seven or more hours of sleep per night. That’s something I definitely need more of in 2018. I was sleep deprived in 2017 with a new baby!
According to the CDC not enough sleep is associated with a number of “chronic diseases and conditions – such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression.”
7. Wear Sunscreen
It’s our bonus one and a must everyday year-round – wear sunscreen or a broad spectrum SPF product daily. The sun, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, causes 90% of skin aging. The skin is our largest organ so it’s important to protect it and keep it healthy 24/7.
More Healthy Living Tips
Here’s to a great 2018! For other ways to make 2018 awesome check out our Healthy Living blog series.
