After the end of one crazy year, maybe you are thinking about making some healthy life choices for the New Year. Most people give up on their New Year’s Resolution in a month or two when it comes to health because they are too restrictive and unsustainable. Here are some ideas for healthy life choices that are not only important to make, but are also ones that you can actually keep:
Eat More Whole Foods
When we talk about eating more whole foods, we are not necessarily talking about going to the Whole Foods grocery store and eating everything there. Whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish, contain a lot of nutrients that your body needs to function at an optimal level. Research has proven that putting more whole foods in your diet will significantly reduce heart disease and type 2 diabetes as well as decrease your risk of other diseases. Putting veggies in your diet everyday will help you in the long run.
Spend Less Time on Electronic Devices
A lot of people nowadays are addicted to their phones and electronic devices. It is nice that we have this technology at our fingertips but too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. According to some studies, spending too much time on electronic devices has been linked to depression, anxiety, and loneliness. It might be a good idea to have a little less screen time and a little more “me time”. Putting more focus and yourself and less on your screen can increase your overall well-being. This can include going to bed earlier instead of spending time on your phone, taking a relaxing bath, or even trying daily.
Visit your Doctor and Dentist
Getting examined regularly by a medical professional is important for a variety of reasons. Seeing your primary care doctor at least once a year for a checkup can help spot potential problems before they get serious. The same goes for maintaining your oral health. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can help prevent certain conditions such as gum disease and bad breath. Making visits to your dentist yearly or semi-annually can further help your oral health with cleanings.
Working to improve mental and physical well-being is the key to a healthy New Year. Whatever choice you decide, just know you will be better for it. And who knows, maybe it will be your resolution every year.
For more healthy New Year’s resolution ideas, click here.
Article written by William Graves.