Six Every Day Changes for a Healthier 2015

To be resolute… Resolutions can be dirty words in wellness. The connotation that comes with it is that they are short lived – that we make plans of grandeur and then fall short of our lofty goals and expectations. Make this year different. This year, make a plan simply to be resolute – to be determined. Do not expect to change the world, your body, or your health overnight. Find every day victories that lead to long term success and don’t give up. 1. Rainbows I bet you won’t forget that. Make sure to eat something colorful at each meal. I’m not talking about fruit loops or green ketchup (cringe). Yellow, green, red, orange, blue – each color correlates with different nutrient profiles. Make half your plate fresh fruits and vegetables. 2. Step up Take the stairs at least once a day. It doesn’t matter if it is six steps or six flights – every step counts. Don’t waste your time driving around stalking the perfect spot while shopping, go ahead and park out in the left field. Those extra distances can really add up! 3. Have fun Yep. I said it. Have fun! If your regimen is not enjoyable and you are miserable every day, it will not be long lived. Make your health something you look forward to. Get a fitness tracker and challenge friends and family. Join a wellness club. Set your own goals and check them off one by one. Find something that works for you and stick with it! 4. Drink up It is easy to get dehydrated, no matter the season. Save yourself a couple bucks and trade the soda for a glass of water. The Institute of Medicine recommends ~ 9 cups of water daily for healthy adult females and ~13 cups of water daily for healthy adult males. 5. Celebrate your successes Not every day can be a celebration, but give yourself a break when you hit a goal or a milestone. Take a deep breath, enjoy your moment and look at how far you’ve come! 6. Look to the right resources if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. There are no magic pills, no magic shakes. Eat right and exercise. Speak with your physician or a registered dietitian to develop a safe and effective wellness plan tailored to you! Be positive when you set your resolutions and have a happy and healthy 2015! Breanna Moore RND, CD is a registered clinical dietitian for St. Vincent Fishers Hospital