There is never a bad time to start putting your health first. Stop convincing yourself that you’ll “start on Monday”; take control and start right now!
Making healthy changes to your lifestyle doesn’t have to involve drastic routine mixups. Healthier lifestyles are much easier to achieve when you make lots of smaller changes, instead! With this in mind, read on to discover seven realistic ways to get healthier this year.
1. Swap Sugar For Fruit
Don’t worry – this guide won’t be full of healthy diet advice. We all know how important a balanced diet is for a healthier lifestyle.
We do, however, want to emphasise the power of perspective.
Many people give up on diets due to being too restrictive. Cutting a certain food group out altogether is not sustainable nor fun! Instead, make an effort to replace unhealthy foods with slightly healthier options. Swapping any sugary snacks with fruit is a great place to start. A diet rich in fruits has many health benefits, including helping to control body weight.
2. Take Your Vitamins
Your body requires plenty of vitamins and minerals to function normally. For the most part, you will obtain these vitamins and minerals from the foods you eat. However, if you want to make a healthier decision and safeguard your diet, consider taking daily multivitamin supplements. There are many types of multivitamins available, all tailored to different lifestyles and requirements.
3. Swap Driving For Walking
As quoted by the NHS, “there is strong scientific evidence that being physically active can lead to a healthier and happier life”. But, how can you make smaller changes to your lifestyle to support this?
It’s highly recommended to take part in at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week. The best way to reach this target is by walking whenever you can, as opposed to driving everywhere. This small change will contribute towards keeping your body moving.
4. Drink Water Regularly
Water helps all bodily functions to work properly. Without it, you would become dehydrated and struggle with everyday tasks. It’s highly advised to drink at least 2L of water a day to prevent this. If you struggle with meeting your water count, make the effort to drink a glass with every meal.
5. Fix Your Sleep Routine
Many people find it difficult to stick to a sleep routine. This can cause a whole series of problems, including struggling with a lack of energy the next day.
Fixing your sleep routine will do your body the world of good. To achieve this, gradually make these small changes:
- Go to bed at the same time every night
- Allow yourself an hour to wind down
- Stay off your phone an hour before sleeping
- Create a calming sleep environment
6. Shop On A Full Stomach
It’s all too easy for unhealthy snacks to fall in your trolley when shopping on an empty stomach. The cravings take over, and before you know it, one ‘treat’ turns into several. The best way to fix this? Shop on a full stomach.
If possible, do your food shop after breakfast or dinner. This will ensure that you’re nice and full, eliminating the desire to stray from your shopping list.
7. Try Out Standing Desks
Did you know that the average office worker spends 15 hours of their day sitting? This sedentary lifestyle will soon take its toll on your health. To keep your body moving and posture in check, consider using a standing desk when working. This might take some getting used to, but you’ll feel better for it!
With these seven realistic tips in mind, you’ll find yourself slowly building a healthier way of living. Good luck!
