Five Ways You Can Rejuvenate Your 2017 Health Resolutions

How long did it take before your New Year’s health resolutions were forgotten? If you’re still focused on your healthy resolutions, great work! And if you’re one of those who have lost focus on their goals, we’re here to help get you back on track.

It’s still early in the year, and not too late to jump start your resolutions for a healthy 2017. Here are five suggestions you can adopt for a healthier you this year:

1. Get Active

Walking and wheelchair rolling are good ways to get moving. So are dancing, biking and swimming. According to the CDC, adults need at least two and a half hours a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking.You don’t have to be a marathoner or a weight lifter — some activity, even 10 minutes a day, is better than none. The important thing is to start today.

2. Prevention is Power

Get the right preventive care to stay healthy this year. Flu shots and other vaccines, regular checkups, and recommended screening tests can help you avoid serious problems or catch problems early when they’re more easily treatable. One of the key preventive services is to talk with your doctor about your health questions.

3. Eat Right 

Are you putting enough fruits and veggies on your plate? Are you drinking enough water? The USDA’s ChooseMyPlate.gov site can help you build out a colorful and delicious plate of food that’s to your liking and promotes good health.

4. Get Your ZZZs

Sleep isn’t about being lazy. You need adequate sleep to function properly and stay healthy — physically and mentally. Healthy adults 18-60 years old need seven or more hours of sleep per night, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society. Teenagers need even more, eight to 10 hours.

Having trouble falling asleep? The National Sleep Foundation recommends going to bed at the same time each night and rising at the same time each morning; making sure your bedroom is quiet, dark and relaxing;— removing TVs, computers and other gadgets from the bedroom; making sure your bed is comfortable; and avoiding a large meal before bedtime.

5. Buddy Up

The buddy system is key. It’s much easier to stay motivated when you have a friend or loved one who will team up with you to help keep both of you striving for a healthy 2017.