Spring Into Better Health With These Life-Changing Tips

Ready to become the best version of yourself? Spring is the perfect time to set a plan into motion. The season brings new beginnings and a welcome opportunity for growth.

Here are some tips on how to make the most of these months:

Eat Well

The first step to embracing a healthier lifestyle is revamping your diet. Food can be a delicious treat, but its primary purpose is to fuel the body. It provides essential nutrients that help maintain vital functions necessary to live. Take ownership of your meals by creating tasty dishes packed with vitamins and minerals. Get creative by boosting nutrition and flavor with some colorful combinations.

Portion sizes have grown tremendously over the last few decades. The worst offenders have been pre-packaged snacks like salty chips and soft drinks. But natural foods have also fallen into this trap. Start practicing portion control by swapping out your dishware. Instead of using a regular dinner plate, opt for a salad plate instead. It’s a simple trick that can help minimize overeating.

Stay Hydrated

Did you know that over half of the human body is water? It’s recommended that the average person consume a minimum of eight 8-ounce glasses per day. For some, that may seem like an overwhelming task. But there’s more than one way to meet this requirement. If you’re tired of chugging the calorie-free beverage, eat it instead.

Food already accounts for about 20 percent of our water intake. Avoid dehydration by adding more fruits and vegetables to your menu. Notable choices include: broccoli, tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelon, strawberries, and pears. Eating the recommended three to four cups a day can help nourish your body and help regulate bodily functions like digestion, circulation, and temperature.

Get Moving

For most people, working out is easier said than done. That’s because beginners initially take on more than they can handle. It’s important to start small and make realistic changes. For example: Don’t aim for an hour-long gym session, when 15 minutes is more your speed.

There are a variety of workouts available for individuals at every age, size, and fitness level. You can train outdoors, at a gym, or from the comfort of your own home. The goal is to find something you enjoy and are more likely to stick with.

Mind Over Matter

Mental health is just as important as physical health. In fact, they’re often connected. Major disorders such as depression and anxiety can affect appetite, sleeping patterns, and mood. It’s important to educate yourself on mental health stigmas and their universal impact. Anyone can experience these symptoms, as 1 in 5 adults deal with mental illness in a given year.

Regardless of your history, practice different forms of self-care to ensure a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Take a moment to disconnect from technology and social media. Prioritize your feelings and needs. Allowing daily responsibilities and distractions to occupy all your time can lead to burnout.

Prevention is Key

Preventive health care is a literal lifesaver. No matter your age, annual checkups should be a crucial part of your routine. During these visits, doctors screen for life-threatening conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

To date, the biggest threat to both men and women is heart disease. It’s the leading cause of death in the U.S. claiming 1 in every 4 lives. Fortunately, it’s largely preventable through behavioral changes. Stop smoking, reduce stress, work out more, and eat heart-healthy foods. Embracing these positive habits will set you on a much better path.

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