With the new year just around the corner, many start to plan what habits or lifestyle changes they want to try for the new year – as many calls it “New Year’s Resolutions.” But instead of thinking of it as a resolution or an overarching health goal, why not make small habit changes to lead to lasting health benefits. Here are the top habits worth implementing for a longer, happier life.
– Regular Doctor Visits – Prevention is key. Annual check-ups enable you and your doctor to get to know each other and establish a baseline for your health.
– Consistent Physical Activity – Moving your body with regular physical activity helps to lower your risk of developing chronic conditions (diabetes, obesity, hypertension, heart disease, and stroke).
– Maintain a Healthy BMI – BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measurement that evaluates a person’s height and weight for potential risk for health issues. A healthy BMI can extend your life by ten years.
– Well-Balanced Diet – A well-balanced diet supports your immune system and protects against depression and chronic diseases. Aim to eat whole foods and minimize processed foods.
– Mental Wellness –A few minutes daily for mental health practices has significant health benefits, from improving self-confidence to memory and mood.
– Sleep! –Improving sleep quality and quantity can decrease stress hormones, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels. Try to keep your bedroom at night dark, quiet, and chilled.
– Drink Less – By drinking less alcohol, you can add at least several years to your life by reducing your risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other chronic diseases.
– Don’t Smoke – Smoking is a significant risk of multiple cancers (not just lung cancer) and increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions.
– Build Strong Relationships – Close, positive relationships bring happiness and comfort into our everyday lives, reducing stress and depression symptoms.
Source:
https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/23/health/longevity-live-longer-tips-wellness https://www.cnn.com/2018/04/30/health/life-expectancy-habits-study
