Take Charge of Your Health

It’s time for a midyear check up on your New Year’s Resolutions. Have you lost that pesky 15 pounds yet? Are you sticking to your carb-free diet? How about your workouts — are your running shoes collecting dust in the back of your closet?

It can feel overwhelming if you haven’t met those lofty goals you set on January 1st. Don’t beat yourself up! Instead, think about the small things that you can start today that will make a difference in your health. Pay attention every day for opportunities to make better decisions. Make a goal of incorporating 2 or 3 new healthy habits into your routine every week. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Increase Your Physical Activity

• Take your dog for a walk
• Don’t be a couch potato – while watching television get on the floor and do some stretches, how about some crunches, planks or pushups while you are down there?
• Climbing the stairs instead of taking the elevator
• Don’t take the parking space in front of the store, park further away to get extra steps in

Healthy Eating

• When eating out, opt for the side salad with your burger instead of the French fries
• Choose grilled chicken instead of fried on your salad
• Taste your food before adding salt
• Make a point of incorporating a vegetable or fruit with every meal

General

• Get enough sleep every night (researchers suggest 7 to 9 hours a night for adults)
• Be a good example to your kids by taking them for a walk or to the park

July is also a great month to check the calendar. Are you current on your periodic health screenings? If not, schedule your appointment(s) now. If you are unsure, schedule an annual physical examination with your doctor and ask about preventative screenings.

• Annual physical exam, including pap smears, mammograms, etc.
• Dental cleanings
• Eye exams
• Colonoscopies

Speaking of doctor’s appointments, be proactive and ask your doctor questions about your concerns. Studies show that patients who participate in their care have better outcomes. Take charge of your health because no one can do it for you! Stop making excuses.

Start with small changes and stick to them. Over time those changes will become healthy habits.