Spring into Good Health!

It's spring! The theme of this season is always rebirth. Now is the time to shed bad eating and exercise habits and begin healthy habits.

Begin with these simple changes to help you create a healthier eating and exercise lifestyle:

1) Plan ahead: Think about your current eating and exercise behaviors. What would you like to change? Write these goals down. Think about the short term health goals first and what you need to day each day to reach your long term health goals.

2) Go grocery shopping regularly in order to have healthy food around: Restock your refrigerator and pantry with more fresh foods/ingredients to replace your processed, packaged foods. If you keep healthy foods on hand regularly, you are more likely to eat them daily.

3) Spend less time in front of the computer/TV and more time moving: Exercise plays a key role in metabolism and weight management. Assess how much time you spend being sedentary. Limit the time you spend on the computer or in front of the television and increase the time you spend on physical activity.

4) Think positive: Everyone is their own worst critic. Stop judging yourself daily and start feeling better about yourself. The more positive you are, the more successful you will be.

5) Hydrate yourself: Water regulates the body’s temperature, cushions and protects vital organs, and aids the digestive system. Hydrating yourself with water throughout the day may help with weight management.

6) Limit eating out and try more home-cooked meals: Food is essential, but watch out if you often view food as a 'reward'. Eating out is often a treat for families, but you must be prepared to choose healthy dishes to avoid weight gain since most of the meals are high in calories, sodium, and fat. By preparing more meals at home, you can control what goes into your body.

7) Cut your portions in half: Bigger is not better, smaller is smarter. Use smaller plates, glasses, and utensils. If you buy in bulk, repackage your food into smaller bags or containers once you get home from grocery shopping.

8) Eat small, frequent meals: By eating every 3-4 hours, you can help control your blood sugar levels and avoid overeating when mealtime comes around. You are more likely to make healthy choices when you are not starving. Keep healthy snacks on hand to have between meals.

Good luck! Don't forget to smile more this spring...happiness is contagious!