The holidays usually mean we're eating too many sweets and spending less time in the gym. Add on a winter cough or cold, and you'll really be off track. Start off 2018 by getting on the path to better health by following these simple steps:
EXERCISE REGULARLY
Regular exercise is a great way to fire up your endorphins and support a healthy immune system. You can do this whether you're running, swimming, cycling, surfing, walking, paddle boarding, and so much more! To keep your exercise plan consistent, choose something that you enjoy. If staying motivated is still a challenge, have a friend join you. The accountability will make you less likely to ditch your workout!
CLEAN UP YOUR DIET
- Eat powerful proteins: Protein not only helps you feel full for longer, it is a vital part of a healthy diet. You can find healthy protein options in a variety of foods, including salmon, beans, poultry, quinoa etc. Remember that even though red meat is high in protein, it can lead to various health risks. If you do opt for red meat choose lean, grass-fed beef.
- Incorporate more vegetables and fruits into your diet. Fruits and veggies will boost your antioxidant levels. Focus on colorful fruits and vegetables, like kale, spinach, blueberries, and pomegranates. Not only are they nice to look at, but they taste great and help to boost your immune system. Try to buy organic as much as possible, or grow your own!
- Eliminate bad fats: If eaten in excess, saturated fats *found in butter and dairy products like ice cream and milk) can lead to clogged arteries. Swap those saturated fats for heart-healthy fats found in nuts or fish. Avoid trans fats as much as possible, as they are also bad for your heart.
- Avoid processed foods: Fast food might be convenient, but those processed foods are often filled with unrecognizable ingredients that are bad for your health. Here's a simple rule to follow: If you cannot pronounce the ingredients, don't buy the food.
GET THE PROPER AMOUNT OF SLEEP
A healthy lifestyle isn't about just diet and exercise. Sleep is very important, too! Insufficient sleep can have major negative effects. Getting restorative rest is vital to your body's ability to stay healthy. Restrict your caffeine intake to the morning hours and keep your home cool to for sound sleep. Avoid your phone, tablet, or tv at night, as the artificial light from your gadgets make it harder for your mind to shut down for quality sleep.
SCHEDULE REGULAR CHIROPRACTIC APPOINTMENTS
To keep your immune system in tip-top shape, add regular chiropractic visits to your schedule. Chiropractic care is a natural way to boost your immune system, so you can stay well and optimize your health.