Healthy Living - Sept 2010
You may not be able to control your age or your genes, but you can make healthy lifestyle changes that have a big impact. Most of your own health and wellness is well within your control.
Healthy Living: Healthy Eating
A balanced diet is a major component to healthy living. Consider your own eating habits. Are there any improvements you could make?
You need three well-balanced meals every day and 2 snacks — and yes, this includes breakfast. Food is your body's fuel, and your body can't run on empty.
Here are some strategies for healthy eating:
• Don't skip meals.
• Avoid trans and saturated fats.
• Avoid added sugar.
• Pick whole grains over processed foods.
• Build your diet around fruits, vegetables, proteins from low-fat dairy & lean meats.
• Eat cold-water fish for omega-3 fatty acids.
Healthy Living: Physical Activity
An active lifestyle may help lower the risk of certain illnesses, including heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, colon cancer, bone loss, and the common cold. Physical activity can also help you manage your weight, improve your sleeping habits, reduce stress, and increase your energy levels.
How much physical activity is required to reap the benefits of fitness? The minimum recommendation is 30 minutes five times per week. The good news is that you don't have to do it all at once. Park your car at the end of the lot, take the stairs, or go for a walk after lunch. Integrate exercise into your day where and when you can.
Healthy Living: Stress Management
There are a number of different ways to manage — and minimize — the stress in your life. You can do simple breathing techniques on your own or try something more structured, such as guided meditation or a yoga class.
Healthy living is a gift that you give yourself.
Source: Everyday Health
