10 Simple Steps to Better Health | HealthInfi

10 Simple Steps to Better Health by Karen Giles-Smith Staying healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. These 10 health habits are easy to incorporate into a busy lifestyle. The key to keeping it real: Just choose one. Or, come up with your own health habit. For at least 30 days, focus on the one health behavior that’s the most important to you. Make the goal you choose a top priority.

Secrets to Success

Rewrite the goal in your own words. Make it specific, doable, and measurable. For example, if you choose the second tip about eating breakfast, make it your own: “On Monday, Wednesday and Friday, I will eat breakfast that includes whole grain, fruit and milk or yogurt.” Post your goal where you’ll see it every morning: on your bathroom mirror, your computer or the fridge.

Determine why this goal is important to you. Why do you want it right now? What’s your inner motivation? The reason should encourage and energize you.

Visualize what life will be like with mission accomplished. Imagine your life—and talk about it—as if you’ve already achieved your goal.

Set yourself up for success. What will make it easier to achieve your goal? What kind of support do you need from family and friends? Consider the potential obstacles. As much as possible, create a positive, supportive environment for yourself.

Anticipate setbacks. If things don’t go the way you planned, give yourself a break, regroup, and get back in the game. Once you’ve got the goal down—once it’s a positive part of your life—give yourself a pat on the back! Then, when you’re ready and willing, choose your next step to better health and create another goal.

1. Meals matter.

Ditch deprivation diets and get back to basics: Eat what you enjoy in amounts that are satisfying, and on a regular basis. As often as possible, feed yourself and your family regularly scheduled meals and snacks. Research shows that people who do so are healthier, have lower body weights, and do better emotionally and socially. Resources: Secrets of Feeding a Healthy Family by Ellyn Satter.

2.Enjoy breakfast’s benefits.

Eating breakfast improves concentration, problem-solving skills, strength and endurance. And people who regularly eat breakfast are more likely to get the nutrients they need and have healthier weights. Not hungry in the morning? Start small with a piece of fruit or a container of yogurt. Or try a drinkable breakfast such as a fruit smoothie.Read More