Unleashing the Power of New Year’s Health Resolutions That Last
Key Takeaways:
- Use the new year as a chance to reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and promote physical activity.
- Prioritize maintaining optimal blood pressure to decrease the risk of heart attacks or strokes.
- Improve your diet by reducing processed food intake and increasing consumption of plant-based foods and water.
- Use antibiotics and prescribed pain medications with caution to avoid developing resistance and misuse respectively.
- Safeguard your health by keeping up with vaccination schedules, promoting good mental health, and quitting tobacco or e-cigarettes.
The dawn of a new year often signals the desire to improve our health. In an attempt to assist you navigate this path, some effective recommendations have surfaced, sifting through the plethora of information out there.
“Considering personal goals and making beneficial health decisions has never been more appropriate now that the season of holiday indulgence is behind us,” prompts an industry professional who prefers to remain anonymous.
“Fortunately, a few simple steps exist that can guide you to a healthier new year,” they added.
Manage Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Take this new year as an opportunity to assess your risk for type 2 diabetes. Learn how you can prevent it or delay its onset.
Physical Activity Is Key
Stay on track with the recommended levels of physical activity. For adults, this includes at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week or 75 minutes of high-intensity activity per week.
Maintain Optimal Blood Pressure
Being aware of your blood pressure is vitally important. If your blood pressure is high, act immediately to bring it under control. This reduces your chances of experiencing a heart attack or stroke.
Reimagine Your Diet
One simple but effective change you can make is to limit your intake of processed foods, particularly those with added sodium and sugar. Feast on more plant-based foods like olive oil, nuts, and seeds. Aim to decrease red and processed meat consumption and increase water intake, replacing drinks sweetened with sugar.
Navigate Antibiotic Use Responsibly
If you’re prescribed antibiotics, use them exactly as prescribed. Addressing antibiotic resistance is a global health priority.
Moderation in Alcohol Consumption
If you enjoy the occasional alcoholic beverage, do so in moderation. That equates to up to one drink per day for women and two drinks daily for men.
Quit Tobacco and E-cigarettes
If you use tobacco or e-cigarettes, have a conversation with your healthcare provider about quitting strategies.
Prescription Pain Medications: Use with Caution
If you’re prescribed pain medications, such as opioids, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Ensure safe storage to prevent misuse and dispose of any remaining drugs correctly.
Stay Current on Vaccines
Ensure that all family members, including children 6 months and older, are up to date with their vaccinations, flu shots included.
Boost Your Mental Health
Promote good mental health and combat stress with a healthy diet, adequate sleep (7.5 hours or more each night), daily physical exercise, and wellness activities such as yoga and meditation. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a mental health professional if needed.
More Information:
For more insights on maintaining good health, visit the American Academy of Family Physicians.
