Welcome 2013 with a renewed
commitment to living healthy. These wellness resolutions will keep you
energized, fit, and beautiful, inside and out.
Control Your Portions
Want to
downsize your figure? Start downsizing your dishes. Studies show using smaller
plates and bowls promote weight loss because they help to curb overeating.
Be Active
One habit naturally
slim people share is their ability to stay in motion. Try to inject each day
with more activity (adults should aim for 30 minutes daily). The opportunities
are endless once you've developed the right mindset.
Slash Sodium Consumption
Studies show
many Americans consume close to twice the recommended limit of sodium, which is
a teaspoon (or 6 grams) daily. Besides contributing to water retention (think
bloat!), sodium can raise blood pressure. Processed foods contain the most, so
make sure to read labels. Lower sodium diets are linked to decreased risk of
heart disease, but are also associated with lower hypertension and weight
management.
Increase Antioxidants
When your
body breaks down food it produces molecules called free radicals. Cigarette
smoke and radiation also produce free radicals. Over time, the damage from
these substances can result in conditions like infection, cancer, inflammation,
and heart disease. That's where antioxidants step in.
Quit Smoking Already
For smokers,
quitting may be the hardest resolution to stick with because it is so
challenging. If you consider the benefits, and take advantage of today's
resources, this could be the year you successfully become a nonsmoker.
Floss Your Teeth
Like many
people, you may not know that bacteria in your mouth can lead to serious
problems if you neglect oral health. You may also be surprised to learn that
during routine exams, your dentist can spot indications of diabetes and heart
disease. One simple thing you can do to head off bacteria is floss your teeth.
To see expert solutions to gum disease and learn how to prevent gum disease and
tooth loss.
Wear Sunscreen... All Year
Sun exposure
affects everyone. According to the National Cancer Institute most
skin cancer develops after age 50, though sun damage starts at an early age.
The sun's rays are also behind brown spots, and can make wrinkles appear before
their time. Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen, even in the winter, anywhere skin
is laid bare to the elements.
Strength Train
In simply 10
minutes a day you could gain more energy, stronger bones, and a faster
metabolism -- and you don't even need to lift dumbbells. Find a class or exercise you are passionate
about!
Take Care of yourself & Remember there
are Alternatives
Watch what
chemicals you are putting in your body.
Remember that Advil doesn’t know exactly where your headache or pain
is. It must travel through your whole
body to get to the source of your pain and it can damage your organs in the
process. There are natural less harmful
ways to deal with pain or other health issues.
See your Naturopath, Chiropractor, Massage Therapist, or Physiotherapist
next time. They are a healthier alternative!
Expect Good Things from Yourself
Having
healthy expectations for yourself is important to both your physical and mental
health. Obviously, that's easier said than done. A mean-spirited inner-critic
can ruin relationships, keep you from reaching personal goals, and restrict
your ability to be an active participant in your life.