With New Year just around the corner.. here are 10 Healthy Tips for the New Year!
1. Stay in touch with old friends & loved ones
Check your facebook. How many old friends have you even seen face to face in the last year. Gulp.. in the last 2 years?
Well, it’s time to renew ties and pick up the phone and call. Why?
Because research suggests people with strong social ties live longer than those who don’t. In fact, a lack of social bonds can damage your health as much as alcohol abuse and smoking, and even more than obesity and lack of exercise, a 2010 study in the journal PLoS Medicine suggests.
2. Control Your Portions
Fed up of being a plus size?
Well by just downsizing your dishes, you will still be able to enjoy food, just not to the point of over satiety. Studies show using smaller plates and bowls promote weight loss because they help to curb overeating.
3. Don’t forget strength training
For some cardio comes easy. But tell them to lift weights and you hear 100 excuses.
In reality, too many people neglect resistance exercise, particularly women for whom it’s crucial for preventing muscle and bone loss with age. Lift weights for at least 20 minutes, two- to three-times per week and marvel at the result. Your metabolism will go up a notch too, so it’s all good.
4. Eat fish twice a week
Omega 3 is essential for good health and the well being of your heart. Cold water fish is what you need to add to the weekly diet – sushi, sashimi – the more raw, the better. Fish oils from salmon, tuna, mackerel and herring, are all beneficial for the heart and brain and may even lower risk of cancer.
5. Cut Out Salt
Too much salt can cause hypertension and make your Blood Pressure rocket. All these are precursors to heart attacks and strokes. Studies show many Westerners (and Asia is catching up) consume close to twice the recommended limit of sodium, which is a teaspoon (or 6 grams) daily. Processed foods contain the most, so make sure to read labels. Lower sodium diets are linked to decreased risk of heart disease, lower BP and better weight management/control.
6. Love Thy Self!
Setting high standards for yourself is good. But setting realistic goals is even better. Having healthy expectations for yourself is important to both your physical and mental health. A overly critical nature can ruin relationships, keep you from reaching personal goals, and cramp your ability to be an active participant in your life. So make sure you take time to give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done, or a particularly great achievement!
7. Reduce Alcohol
8. Drink More Water
9. Learn a New Skill
10. Save Money!
Happy New Year readers.. Let’s rock 2013 together!
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