When it comes to New Years resolutions, it is often best to aim for small, measurable outcomes and set a reasonable timeline for yourself. Losing weight is likely the most commonly made resolution every year, yet go to the gym more might be the fastest resolution to get tossed out the window once the calendar rolls over. Instead of obsessing over the scale and resolving to force yourself to do activities you hate, consider a more holistic approach to your health. Consistent improvements to your diet, and finding physical activities you enjoy, are the best ways to set yourself up for improved heart health - and you will likely find your healthy weight in the process. Here are some ideas for healthier New Years resolutions: 1. Incorporate more leafy greens into your meals: if you already eat them a few days per week, aim for a serving at least once per day. Dont limit yourself to spinach and the ever popular kale (although those are definitely nutritional power houses)- dont forget about collards, swiss chard, mustard greens, dandelion, beet greens, carrot greens, etc. Some are great raw, others are best steamed or sauteed with garlic. 2. Resolve to walk more: wear a pedometer for a week and track your average daily steps. Aim to double your number of steps every week until you can reach at least 10,000 per day. 3. Commit to trying new activities: physical activity doesn’t have to mean sweating it out doing repetitions at the gym. Get out of your comfort zone and try a new sport or activity at least once per month. This is not only great for your heart health - you’ll likely meet new people and will have plenty of interesting things to talk about when you tell your friends about all of the new activities you’re trying. 4. Cook more: reduce the number of pre-made or fast food meals you eat each week by at least one. 5. Drink fewer sugary beverages: drink a soda every day? Or maybe 3+ per day? Start by replacing one of your regular beverages with water each week, aiming to eventually drink only one per week or none at all. What are your New Years resolutions? Do you have any healthy tips to share? Also, check out New Years Resolutions by the Numbers: thestar/news/world/2013/01/01/new_years_resolutions_by_the_numbers.html
Posted on: Wed, 31 Dec 2014 19:49:29 +0000
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