The day-to-day choices we make can impact whether we live a long, healthy life or suffer from disabling chronic diseases like heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. It takes a little time and effort to develop healthy habits in eating, sleeping, exercising, socializing and reducing stress but the rewards can be great.
The key to achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is building new, positive habits rather than completely overhauling your existing routine. Many of us attempt to change everything at once, which usually results in quitting before even getting started. Instead, focus on adding one healthy activity to your daily schedule and build on it each week.
For example, if you normally buy a bag of chips from the vending machine at work, substitute with an apple or cup of low-fat yogurt. Or if you smoke on the steps outside your office, try to find another route. It is also helpful to avoid triggers that may cause you to revert back to your old unhealthy behaviors, such as avoiding the place where you normally get your food or using sugarless gum to overcome cravings for sweets.
To keep yourself motivated, remember that you’re doing this for your health and don’t be afraid to give yourself a pat on the back every now and then for meeting your goals. But don’t rely on food or alcohol as rewards because they can actually discourage you from pursuing your health goals. Bli mer hälsosam
